Question

Read the excerpt from "Openin’ Night” by Shel Silverstein.

Then she forgot
A line she knew
And went "Meow”
Instead of "Moo”
She heard 'em giggle
She heard 'em boo
The programs sailed
The popcorn flew
As she stomped offstage
With a boo-hoo-hoo

Which statement best describes how a graphical element adds to the meaning of the poem?

The short line lengths emphasize the frustration of the actress.
The lack of punctuation shows that things are about to calm down.

Answer 1

The first statement is best: the short lines and quick, staccato rhythm highlight the actress’s sudden embarrassment and frustration. The second is incorrect — the poem does include punctuation and the action escalates rather than calming down.