Final answer:
Charlie wanted to avoid being conspicuous, which means he did not want to be easily seen or attract attention. The correct answer to the student's question is 'D) Easily seen', as it aligns with Charlie's preference to remain unnoticed and separate from his peers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Charlie's sentiment of not wanting to feel conspicuous implies that he did not wish to be easily seen or to stand out in his environment. He desired to remain unnoticed, preferring to hide in the background where he could avoid the attention of others. The word 'conspicuous' often conveys the idea of being visible or attracting notice, which is not what Charlie wanted. Thus, the correct answer to the question is D) Easily seen.
In the context given, Charlie's preference for quietness and to be ignored suggests that he felt different from his peers, perhaps harboring 'foreign thoughts and longings,' which made him stand out in unusual ways. His desire to hide in the back of the room reflects his discomfort with these differences being noticed.