Question

The following passage is from William Cullen Bryant’s poem *To the Fringed Gentian.* In this poem, the speaker reflects on the enduring beauty of the fringed gentian flower.

>Thou blossom bright with autumn dew,
And colored with the heaven’s own blue,
That openest when the quiet light
Succeeds the keen and frosty night.
Thou comest not when violets lean
O’er wandering brooks and springs unseen,
Or columbines, in purple dressed,
Nod o’er the ground-bird’s hidden nest.
Thou waitest late and com’st alone,
When woods are bare and birds are flown,
And frosts and shortening days portend
The aged year is near his end
	
Which choice *best* states the main purpose of the passage?

Accepted Answer

To praise the unique timing and beauty of a specific flower that blooms in autumn.

Answer

To compare the life cycle of various flowers and their adaptations to seasonal changes.

Answer

To lament the passing of the seasons and the inevitable approach of winter.

Answer

To describe a detailed and scientific study of different floral species.

Question 10 - Reading and Writing Practice Test for the SAT Exam