Question

In "September 1, 1939," what is the difference between "We must love one another and die" (the original line) and "We must love one another or die" (Auden's edit)? Which do you think is the most truthful?

a) The original line emphasizes a choice
b) Auden's edit emphasizes inevitability
c) Both convey the same message
d) It's not clear which is more truthful

Answer 1

The difference between the original line and Auden's edit is in the conjunction used, 'and' versus 'or.' The original line emphasizes choice, while Auden's edit emphasizes inevitability. Both versions convey a similar message of the importance of love.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the poem 'September 1, 1939,' the original line is 'We must love one another and die,' while Auden's edit is 'We must love one another or die.' The difference between the two lies in the conjunction used, 'and' versus 'or.' The original line emphasizes a choice, suggesting that we must love one another even in the face of death, while Auden's edit emphasizes inevitability, implying that loving one another is necessary to avoid a negative outcome. Both versions convey a similar message of the importance of love, but with slightly different nuances.