Question

The shift in syntax in lines 9–11 is likely designed to

A.provide a parallel structure to the lines 1–3.

B.mimic the fleeting nature of thoughts with informal open form poetry.

C.imitate the rhyme scheme found in a sonnet.

D.illustrate the growing distance of the birds with lines that grow in length.

E.show the speaker's loss through lack of meter.

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Answer 1

Should be C! If i am correct

Answer 2

The shift in syntax in lines 9–11 is likely designed to B. mimic the fleeting nature of thoughts with informal open form poetry.

In the poem "LXV [Once, I knew a fine song]" by Stephen Crane, the shift in syntax from the longer lines 1–3 to the shorter and more fragmented lines 9–11 serves a crucial role in conveying the thematic elements of loss and transience.

The sudden change mirrors the rapid dispersal of the birds held by the speaker, creating a visual and auditory impact akin to the swift flight of thoughts. The use of informal and open form poetry in this section captures the elusive and unpredictable nature of the escaping "little thoughts."

The syntactic shift effectively mirrors the essence of the poem, emphasizing the transient, uncontrollable, and ephemeral quality of fleeting ideas. This intentional disruption in the structure contributes to the poignant portrayal of the speaker's attempt to grasp and retain these elusive thoughts, ultimately emphasizing their fleeting and elusive nature.