Final answer:
The metaphor Augustus uses to describe the children playing on the bones is a) They are like little adventurers exploring ancient ruins. The metaphor of playing on the bones is ironic given Augustus's history of bone cancer because b) It highlights the harsh reality of his condition, emphasizing the fragility of life. In the novel, the slant of light in the early spring Indianapolis afternoon represents a) hope and new beginnings after a long, cold winter.
Step-by-step explanation:
1. The metaphor Augustus uses to describe the children playing on the bones at the park is a) They are like little adventurers exploring ancient ruins. This comparison suggests that the children are acting as explorers, discovering something ancient and mysterious.
2. The metaphor of playing on the bones is ironic given Augustus's history of bone cancer because b) It highlights the harsh reality of his condition, emphasizing the fragility of life. While Augustus uses the metaphor to describe the children's playfulness, it also serves as a reminder of his own mortality and the challenges he faced due to his illness.
3. In the novel, the slant of light in the early spring Indianapolis afternoon represents a) hope and new beginnings after a long, cold winter. The slant of light symbolizes the arrival of spring and the promise of new opportunities and growth.