Question

Read these lines about the fish the speaker catches in Elizabeth Bishop’s poem “The Fish”:

Like medals with their ribbons
frayed and wavering,
a five-haired beard of wisdom

Which best describes the tone in these lines?
A. Hopeful
B. Scared
C. Admiring
D. Remorseful

Answer 1

The tone of Elizabeth Bishops's poem 'The Fish' in the provided lines is admiring, showing respect and awe for the fish's experience and age.

Step-by-step explanation:

The tone of the lines from Elizabeth Bishop's poem "The Fish" is one of admiration. The speaker's description of the fish's skin as 'like medals' and its 'five-haired beard of wisdom' conveys a sense of respect and awe for the creature's survival and age. Rather than simply viewing the fish as a trophy, Bishop's language imparts a feeling of reverence towards the fish.

Answer 2

The correct answer is C.

The author, Elizabeth Bishop, is expressing in these lines a sincere admiration towards the fish. She starts comparing fish with medals, objects that reflect glory, which are only owned by champions. The author is hence considering fish to be glorious animals with their ribbons, which enhance their beauty at a greater extent.

Moreover, she continues stating that these animals wander around spreading a 'five-heard beard' of wisdom. It suggests that they have seen so many things in their wanderings, that they have become a source of wisdom, even tough you might not think so at first sight.

Definitely, she shows admiration.