You are a rose, but set with sharpest spine;

Question

You are a pretty bird that pecks at me;
You are a little squirrel on a tree,
Pelting me with the prickly fruit of the pine;
A diamond, torn from a crystal mine, Not like that milky treasure of the sea A smooth, translucent pearl, but skilfully Carven to cut, and faceted to shine.
If you are flame, it dances and burns blue;
If you are light, it pierces like a star Intenser than a needlepoint of ice.
The dexterous touch that shaped the soul of you, Mingled, to mix, and make you what you are, Magic between the sugar and the spice.
This question has two parts. Answer Part A, and then answer Part B.
Part A
In line 14, Nancy is the "Magic between the sugar and the spice."
What does the word spice mean in this poem?
1. strong ideas
2. hurtful actions
3. amusing habits
4. severe remarks
Part B
Which line from the poem best supports the correct answer from Part A?
• 1. "You are a pretty bird that pecks at me:" (Line 2)
• 2. "A diamond, torn from a crystal mine," (Line 5)
• 3. "Not like that milky treasure of the sea" (Line 6)
• 4. "Mingled, to mix, and make you what you are." (Line 13)

Answer 1

Part A: In the context of the poem, the word "spice" refers to qualities that add flavor or excitement, which could imply a mix of traits that contribute to the person's character. Considering the options provided, the most fitting interpretation of "spice" in this context is:

1. strong ideas

Part B: The line from the poem that best supports the correct answer from Part A is:

4. "Mingled, to mix, and make you what you are." (Line 13)

This line suggests the combination of different elements or qualities that shape the individual, aligning with the idea that "spice" represents strong or impactful traits.