Question

Reality and Cynicism in Poetry

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Which best describes the irony in "A Man Said to the Universe"?
The man's attempt to communicate with the universe is ignorant.
The universe acknowledges the man's existence simply by responding to him.
The man can only exist if the universe acknowledges his existence.
O The man is obligated to show respect to the universe.
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Answer 1

The irony in the poem lies in the man's attempt to communicate with an unresponsive and mocking universe, highlighting the theme of reality and cynicism.

Step-by-step explanation:

The irony in the poem "A Man Said to the Universe" by Stephen Crane lies in the fact that the man's attempt to communicate with the universe is met with indifference and ridicule. The universe is portrayed as an unresponsive entity that mocks the man's insignificance and ignorance.

For example, when the man says, "Sir, I exist!", the universe responds with, "But the fact has not created in me/a sense of obligation." This highlights the irony of the man's belief that his existence should warrant a response from the vastness of the universe.

This irony highlights the theme of reality and cynicism in the poem, as it criticizes humanity's tendency to think highly of itself and expect acknowledgement from an indifferent and vast universe.

Learn more about Irony in poetry