Question

But I still wonder how it was possible, in those graceless years of transition, long ago, that men did not see whither they were going, and went on, in blindness and cowardice, to their fate. I wonder, for it is hard for me to conceive how men who knew the word “I,” could give it up and not know what they lost. Based on the excerpt, it can be inferred that the narrator believes that

Answer 1

The passages explore themes of war, identity, and the human condition, illustrating the characters' struggles with the loss of belief, change during challenging times, and the search for meaning in the midst of upheaval.

Step-by-step explanation:

The passages provided seem to reflect on the themes of war, the passage of time, and the idea of change versus permanence. It appears that the narrators discuss the difficulties in foreseeing the outcomes of certain actions during times of transition and war, grappling with the concepts of failure, loss, and the ephemeral nature of life.

One common thread is the challenge of maintaining one's beliefs and identity ('the word I') amidst chaos and coercion. The characters express regret and wonder at the loss of their former convictions or life's vibrancy, suggesting a nostalgic yearning for a past that was more hopeful or less consumed by the harsh realities they face.

Furthermore, the passages touch upon the universal human experience and the sometimes inexplicable nature of life and death, as well as the unique experiences during war, where individuals might feel disconnected and powerless in the face of larger geopolitical events.

Answer 2

Men surrendered to conformity and gave up their own freedom

Step-by-step explanation:

"I wonder, for it is hard for me to conceive how men who knew the word “I,” could give it up and not know what they lost."

It is saying that humankind gave up on the idea of "I" in pursuit of the "We" and thus, have no individual freedom. They began to stagnate.