Longing

Question

by Paul Laurence Dunbar

If you could sit with me beside the sea to-day,
And whisper with me sweetest dreamings o’er and o’er;
I think I should not find the clouds so dim and gray,
And not so loud the waves complaining at the shore.

If you could sit with me upon the shore to-day,
And hold my hand in yours as in the days of old,
I think I should not mind the chill baptismal spray,
Nor find my hand and heart and all the world so cold.

If you could walk with me upon the strand to-day,
And tell me that my longing love had won your own,
I think all my sad thoughts would then be put away,
And I could give back laughter for the Ocean’s moan!

"Longing" by Paul Laurence Dunbar

Question
Use the poem to answer the question.

Which analysis of the prosody and graphic elements used in this poem is accurate?

(1 point)
Responses

The meter varies throughout the poem, contributing to the theme of nostalgia.
The meter varies throughout the poem, contributing to the theme of nostalgia.

The shape of the stanzas is used to build visual tension as the poem progresses.
The shape of the stanzas is used to build visual tension as the poem progresses.

The lines are close to the same length, contributing to a steady rhythm and even appearance on the page.
The lines are close to the same length, contributing to a steady rhythm and even appearance on the page.

The sound of the rhymes are used to mimic the sound of waves on the beach.

Answer 1

The accurate analysis of the prosody and graphic elements used in the poem "Longing" by Paul Laurence Dunbar is:

The lines are close to the same length, contributing to a steady rhythm and even appearance on the page.

This choice reflects the poem's consistent structure, which helps create a sense of balance and rhythm throughout the verses. The other options may contain elements of truth but do not capture the primary effect of the poem's prosody and graphic presentation as effectively as this one.