Question

Poem is George Gray by Edgar Lee Masters.

Which best describes how George Gray feels about the image on his tombstone?
A) He believes the image on his tombstone shows how afraid he was of taking big risks.
B) He believes that the picture on his tombstone does not accurately reflect his life.
C) He believes the image on his tombstone was placed there as a joke by everyone who disapproved of his lifestyle.
D) He believes that the picture on his tombstone shows how eager he was to set sail and make big decisions in life.

Answer 1

Answer: A) He believes the image on his tombstone shows how afraid he was of taking big risks.

Step-by-step explanation:

"George Gray" is Edgar Lee Masters' poem about a dead man, who has wasted his life. Gray is the speaker of the poem, a man who was not ready to take risks and see where life would bring him. He chose to play it safe, and did not life life to the fullest, which he regrets. As he says: "Ambition called to me, but I dreaded the chances." He realizes, although too late, that we must take risks and "catch the winds of destiny, wherever they drive the boat". The main idea of the poem is that we should not be afraid of failure, as it is better than life in fear.