The motif being developed in the passage is youth versus age. The interaction between Dulceña and the speaker highlights the innocence and joy of youth through their dance, while the presence of the adult figures (Doña Serafina, Madame Josette, Don Rodrigo) suggests a looming adult world filled with social expectations and pressures.
Shame the Stars
by Guadalupe García McCall
“We’re being watched,” she whispered, leaning into me as we took to the floor and swayed with the music. “Mamá is intrigued, but Madame Josette knows exactly who you are.”
I scanned the room as we turned in the waltz. Doña Serafina sat at a table to our left. “I think Madame Josette is trying to distract her,” I whispered, sweeping Dulceña farther away from the two women. “Where’s your father?”
“Against the far wall, to your right.” Dulceña dipped her head in that general direction.
Don Rodrigo was talking to Mr. Simmons, our neighbor over by Las Moras and co-owner of the sugar mill. “He looks busy.”
“Yes, but not for long. He’ll be joining Mamá soon, and they will want to know who I’m dancing with,” Dulceña whispered. Taking my lead, she twirled beautifully under my uplifted hand. The ease of our movement together surprised me. We hadn’t had occasion to dance with each other in more than two years, not since our parents stopped socializing. It felt good to hold her in my arms again.
Question
Use the passage to answer the question.
Which motif is being developed in the passage?
(1 point)
Responses
the loss of love
the loss of love
fear of failure
fear of failure
youth versus age
youth versus age
inner conflict
inner conflict
1 answer