Final answer:
a.) human suffering. In Stephen Crane's "I Walked in a Desert," the desert metaphorically represents human suffering, as illustrated by the creature consuming its own bitter heart in a desolate landscape.
Step-by-step explanation:
In "I Walked in a Desert," by Stephen Crane, the desert serves as a metaphor for human suffering. The poem describes a creature holding its heart in its hands, eating it despite its bitterness. This powerful image conveys a sense of self-inflicted pain and torment. The desolation and barrenness of a desert landscape reflect the internal desolation the creature feels, underscoring the theme of suffering. A desert is typically associated with harsh conditions and survival challenges, further reinforcing this interpretation.
The creature's action of consuming its own heart, which is described as 'bitter-bitter,' illustrates the deep and often painful introspection or awareness of one's own flaws and failings. The situation suggests a form of self-punishment, implying that the creature's suffering is a consequence of its own doings. Therefore, the desert symbolizes the creature's emotional state of despair and the arduous journey of confronting and living with personal pain or guilt, aligning with option A, which identifies the metaphor as human suffering.