Question

“Hope” is the thing with feathers

by Emily Dickinson

“Hope” is the thing with feathers –
That perches in the soul –
And sings the tune without the words –
And never stops – at all –

And sweetest – in the Gale – is heard –
And sore must be the storm –
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm –

I’ve heard it in the chillest land –
And on the strangest Sea –
Yet – never – in Extremity,
It asked a crumb – of Me.



How does the extended metaphor in the poem affect the reader’s understanding of hope?

(1 point)
Responses

It describes hope as a fragile bird, showing that it is easily lost in times of trouble.
It describes hope as a fragile bird, showing that it is easily lost in times of trouble.

It presents hope as something external, like the weather, that people cannot control.
It presents hope as something external, like the weather, that people cannot control.

It compares hope to a bird to suggest that it is a constant, comforting presence that endures hardship.
It compares hope to a bird to suggest that it is a constant, comforting presence that endures hardship.

It uses a bird metaphor to imply that hope is loud and demanding when we face challenges.

It uses a bird metaphor to imply that hope is loud and demanding when we face challenges.

Answer 1

It compares hope to a bird to suggest that it is a constant, comforting presence that endures hardship.