Question

An open space on the street
snapped him out of his thoughts
and back to the wheel.
He sped up a little
and moved close to the curb,
pulling ahead of the space.
Just as he shifted his car
in reverse, a flash
swooped in from behind
and took from Square
what the morning had offered.

How is this excerpt important to the poem as a whole?

It shows the exposition.
It introduces the main characters.
It shows the falling action.
It introduces the conflict.

Answer 1

The excerpt is important to the poem as a whole because **it introduces the conflict**. The moment when the character sees an open space and then is interrupted by a sudden, unexpected event (the flash swooping in) indicates a shift in circumstances and creates tension. This sets the stage for the challenges that may arise, highlighting the disruption of the character's thoughts and plans, which is central to unfolding the poem's theme and narrative.