Question

Read the poem "February 11th 1990” (for Dennis Brutus) by Wanda Coleman.

This year the leaves turn red green black
freedom colors each leaf
each stitch of grass. I am amazed
at my sweet harvest. The prison door has opened
and a nation’s heart is released. I am full
having spent my greediness in a ritual of joy.

How does the phrase "a nation’s heart is released” affect the poem’s tone?

It creates an affectionate tone.
It creates a cautious tone.
It creates a celebratory tone.
It creates an urgent tone.

Answer 1

It creates a celebratory tone.

The image of a prison door opening and a nation’s heart being “released,” combined with the speaker’s amazement, fullness, and “ritual of joy,” conveys relief and public celebration rather than caution, urgency, or mere affection.