The author describes the character of Emily Dickinson as “a recluse” who “lived a life of quiet contemplation.” Dickinson’s decision to withdraw from society is further emphasized by the author’s use of the word “secluded.” The author then goes on to say that Dickinson “chose to be a poet, and a poet only.” In the last sentence of the passage, the author explains that although “Dickinson’s writing was often marked by a sense of isolation,” “she was also capable of deep emotion.” What is the function of the underlined sentence in the text as a whole?
Which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence in the text as a whole?
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The underlined sentence connects Dickinson’s decision to withdraw from society, which the author describes as a choice to live “a life of quiet contemplation,” to her ability to experience deep emotion. Although Dickinson’s writing is often marked by a sense of isolation, she was also capable of deep emotion. This connection is implied by the author’s use of the word “although,” which suggests a contrast between Dickinson’s writing style and her capacity for deep emotion. The author’s assertion that Dickinson’s writing was often marked by a sense of isolation may seem contradictory, but the author clarifies that Dickinson was also capable of deep emotion. This suggests that Dickinson’s isolation was not due to a lack of emotion but rather a choice that allowed her to focus on her art. The author is linking Dickinson’s writing style to her personality, so the underlined sentence is connecting a character trait to an action.
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