The speaker develops the central idea in the poem primarily through option 3: by instructing readers that no matter who they are, their thoughts should be admirable and pure. The poem emphasizes the importance of the quality of one's thoughts, suggesting that one's worth is directly tied to their thoughts, regardless of their social standing or accomplishments. The passages about "holding" thoughts tightly and purging, scouring, and burning them brightly further underscore the necessity of cultivating admirable thoughts, aligning with the idea that the essence of a person is reflected in their thoughts.
What kind of thoughts now, do you carry In your travels day by day
Are they bright and lofty visions, Or neglected, gone astray?
Matters not how great in fancy, Or what deeds of skill you've wrought;
Man, though high may be his station,
Is no better than his thoughts.
Catch your thoughts and hold them tightly,
Let each one an honor be;
Purge them, scourge them, burnish brightly,
Then in love set each one free.
How does the speaker develop the central idea in the poem?
1. by warning readers that the quality of their thoughts can greatly affect their happiness
2. by reassuring readers that there is still time to make their thoughts wiser and more loving
3. by instructing readers that no matter who they are, their thoughts should be admirable and pure
4. by advising readers that their thoughts should be kind toward all people, no matter who they are
1 answer