Final answer:
The passages describe varied perceptions and emotional connections to rivers, signifying different aspects of human interaction with nature and reflecting cultural and societal attitudes towards life's journey and the natural world.
Step-by-step explanation:
Each passage offers a different perspective about people's relationships with rivers, and their views on the world and the supernatural. Passage A describes the river as dangerous and almost alive with its fierce characteristics, while Passage B suggests a longing to be one with the river and its currents despite the risks.
Passage C reflects a deep desire to be a part of the river, symbolizing a yearning to merge with nature, akin to a heroic aspiration. Lastly, Passage D portrays the river as powerful and protective, like a father figure, yet untamable and rebellious.
Connecting to the specific excerpts and the broader idea of how cultures relate to their rivers and perceive their worlds, these passages reflect varying degrees of intimacy, reverence, and awe.
The river serves as a metaphor for life's journey and each person's attitude towards that journey reflects their cultural and individual values. It can represent freedom, danger, providence, and even a mixture of reverence and fear, shining a light on the complex connections between humans and nature.