Question

Which best describes the irony in "A Man Said to the Universe"?

Option 1: The man’s attempt to communicate with the universe is ignorant.
Option 2: The universe acknowledges the man’s existence simply by responding to him.
Option 3: The man can only exist if the universe acknowledges his existence.
Option 4: The man is obligated to show respect to the universe.

Answer 1

The best description of irony in 'A Man Said to the Universe' is that the universe's response to the man, albeit dismissive, ironically acknowledges his existence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The irony in the poem A Man Said to the Universe is best described by Option 2: The universe acknowledges the man’s existence simply by responding to him. This presents an ironic situation because the man is seeking recognition from the vast universe, which is indifferent and unconcerned with human affairs. Yet, in the act of responding, even if only to deny the man's importance, the universe inadvertently gives him a form of the very recognition he seeks. The poem plays on the tension between human self-importance and the vast, impersonal cosmos.