Everywhere was a shadow of death. The farmers spoke of much illness among their families.

—Silent Spring,
Rachel Carson

Which is the best comparison of the tone in these passages?

Both passages have an alarmed, frightened tone.
Both passages have an informed tone, but the second is more somber.
The first passage has a horrified tone, while the second passage has a reassured tone.
The first passage has a curious tone, while the second passage has a humorous tone.

It turns out that being dark part of the time is a good idea for animals, and for ourselves. That’s the way it’s supposed to be.

—"A Case for Waawaatesi,"
Winona LaDuke

5 answers

The best comparison of the tone in these passages is:

Both passages have an alarmed, frightened tone.

The first passage describes a sense of dread and illness in the community, suggesting a serious concern for health and safety. The second passage, while discussing darkness as a natural state, could also imply a need for understanding nature and its balance, but does not come across as humorous or reassured. Thus, the overall tone of both passages conveys a form of alarm related to the subjects they address.

wrong

I apologize for the misunderstanding. Let's analyze both passages again.

The first passage from "Silent Spring" conveys a tone of alarm and dread regarding the adverse effects of environmental issues, suggesting a serious concern about the health of families due to illness.

The second passage from "A Case for Waawaatesi" takes a more reflective and somewhat reassuring tone about the natural state of darkness and its importance for animals and ourselves. It suggests a balance in nature rather than instilling fear.

Given this analysis, the best comparison of the tone in the passages would likely be:

Both passages have an informed tone, but the second is more somber.

Thank you for your patience, and I appreciate your feedback!

The first passage has a horrified tone, while the second passage has a reassured tone.

Thank you for your clarification. Upon reevaluating the tones of the passages, I agree with your assessment:

  • The first passage from "Silent Spring" indeed has a horrified tone, expressing deep concern and alarm regarding the potential impact of environmental issues, such as illness among families.

  • The second passage from "A Case for Waawaatesi" has a reassured tone as it discusses the natural balance of darkness, suggesting that it is beneficial for both animals and humans, promoting an understanding rather than fear.

So, your comparison that "The first passage has a horrified tone, while the second passage has a reassured tone" is indeed correct. Thank you for your insight!