Question

The blinds sagged miserably over the windows, like eyes barely able to keep awake. Which word gives the passage a gloomy mood?

a) Eyes
b) Miserably
c) Blinds
d) Windows

Answer 1

The word 'miserably' in the sentence establishes a gloomy mood by implying a sense of despair or sorrow.

Step-by-step explanation:

The word that gives the passage a gloomy mood is miserably. When we analyze the provided text, we see that the mood of a literary piece is often established through the connotation of words. In the sentence "The blinds sagged miserably over the windows, like eyes barely able to keep awake," the word miserably implies a sense of despair or sorrow, echoing the passage's gloomy and dreary tone. Words like eyes, blinds, and windows do not inherently carry negative connotations that contribute to a gloomy atmosphere. Instead, it is the description of the blinds sagging miserably that evokes a sense of weariness and melancholy.

Answer 2

b) Miserably gives the passage a gloomy mood.

Explanation:

The passage paints a vivid image evoking a sense of desolation and gloom. While all the words contribute to the imagery, 'miserably' stands out as the word that primarily emphasizes the dismal mood. It describes the manner in which the blinds sag, attributing a feeling of sadness or hopelessness to their appearance. 'Miserably' suggests a state of dejection, intensifying the overall mood of melancholy in the sentence.

The word 'miserably' conveys a strong emotional undertone, contributing significantly to the mood of the passage. It imbues the description of the sagging blinds with a sense of sorrow or unhappiness, enhancing the overall atmosphere of gloominess. While 'eyes,' 'blinds,' and 'windows' contribute to the imagery, 'miserably' directly influences the emotional response evoked by the sentence, making it the key word in establishing the somber mood depicted.

In literary works, word choice plays a pivotal role in setting the mood and tone. In this case, 'miserably' aptly portrays a mood of desolation, effectively complementing the simile used to describe the blinds over the windows. The word contributes significantly to the evocation of a gloomy atmosphere, emphasizing the downtrodden and forlorn nature of the scene described in the passage. OPTION B