In line 1 of “Winter's Embrace,” the phrase "the city lay still" contributes to the mood of the poem by emphasizing

the tranquility and quiet of a winter morning

the chaos of daily life in the city

the excitement of the morning rush

the anticipation of an upcoming storm

1 answer

In line 1 of “Winter's Embrace,” the phrase "the city lay still" contributes to the mood of the poem by emphasizing the tranquility and quiet of a winter morning. This phrase suggests a sense of calmness and stillness, which is often associated with peaceful winter scenes.