Question

Recall the poem “Breakage” by Mary Oliver. What is the purpose of the enjambment in this poem?

A.It reflects the poem’s lack of rhyme.

B.It reflects the brokenness of the scene the poem describes.

C.It reveals the speaker’s disappointment at the scene.

D.It emphasizes the poem’s vivid imagery.

E.It highlights the tired voice in the poem.

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Answer 1

The purpose of the enjambment in the poem “Breakage” by Mary Oliver is the following:

B. It reflects the brokenness of the scene the poem describes.

The enjambment of the poem is tied to the scenery of broken elements in the poem, from clams and mussels and finally to words themselves, which are fragments of something that is never whole nor shut.