Question

Instructions

Read the question carefully and select the best answer.
What idea does the author most likely express by describing the group of people as "no better off than before
They knew that one word, Chicago and that was all they needed to know, at least, until they reached the city
without ceremony, they were no better off than before; they stood staring down the vista of Dearborn Street,
in the distance, unable to realize that they had arrived, and why, when they said "Chicago," people no longer
instead looked perplexed, or laughed, or went on without paying any attention.
A. A person that is successful in one city can bring that success to a new city.
B. Changing locations does not necessarily change a person's situation in life.
C. People might be rude to strangers before they get to know and help them.
D. Two locations that are far apart can look nearly the same to a person

Answer 1

The author suggests that changing locations does not guarantee a change in one's life situation, as the description implies that the migrants find themselves facing the same challenges in Chicago that they had hoped to escape.

Step-by-step explanation:

The author most likely expresses the idea that changing locations does not necessarily change a person's situation in life by describing the group of people as "no better off than before". The passage provides insight into the plight of individuals who migrate to a city like Chicago with hopes of finding greater opportunities. However, upon arrival, they realize that their circumstances are much the same as they were before, if not worse, due to urban challenges like low wages, poor living conditions, and discrimination.

As individuals stare down the vista of Dearborn Street, their expectations meet the harsh reality that simply being in a new city does not guarantee an improved lot in life. This mirrors the wider phenomenon where the expectations of the land of opportunity do not always match up with the grim realities of urban life. The naive excitement signified by their single word, "Chicago," quickly fades as they confront societal indifference and the struggle for economic security amid deep-seated inequalities.