Question

Read the following passage. What is the central idea King is attempting to express?

"We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to
engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the
promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path
of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of
brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children."
A. Racial injustice is a solid rock.
B. America should make immediate changes to ensure equality for all people.
C. America should not use drugs.
D. Segregation must be fought gradually.​

Answer 1

The answer is B. "America should make immediate changes to ensure equality for all people".

By using the repetition of "Now is the time", King was attempting to inspire people to fight for equality as soon as possible.

King also used the sentence: "This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism." By using this sentence, King is stating that now is not the time to wait for equality and freedom to be granted. Instead, they should fight for it currently and not wait, as past generations did.

By using both of these techniques, King is inspiring people, specifically Americans, to immediately begin working towards freedom and equality for all.

Hope this helps! :)