Final answer:
The tone in the stanza from Whitman's poem 'I Heard America Singing' is best described as 'Happy,' as it emphasizes joy and appreciation for the simple tasks and the individuals performing them.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word that best describes the tone in the stanza from Walt Whitman's poem I Heard America Singing is Happy. The stanza evokes a sense of joy and contentment with phrases like "The delicious singing of the mother, or of the young wife at work, or of the girl sewing or washing," indicating an appreciation for everyday tasks and the people performing them. Whitman celebrates the unique contributions of each individual to the broader tapestry of American life, reinforcing his themes of democracy and individualism.
Whitman's poetry is often characterized by its celebration of the ordinary and the common people. Through his free verse and simple language, he connects with readers and encapsulates the spirit of the nation, particularly focusing on the importance of individual expression as part of the collective harmony. The use of "carols" instead of "songs" speaks to the cheeriness and the folk quality inherent in the sounds of the nation that he is portraying.