My Papa's Waltz

Waltzing 'was not easy' for the poet most likely because

• he was physically weak

• he suffered from dizziness

• his father's movements were rough

• he could not dance

"but I hung on like death" (L3) most likely suggests the child

• fear of dancing

• wish to die

• determination to learn

• closeness to his father

What does the line 'caked hard like dirt' tell of the poet's father?

• his palms were dirty

• his hands were rough from hard work

• he held a cake in his hand

• he had smooth hands

The lines "We romped until the pans/ slid from the kitchen shelf" (L- 5-6) suggest that

• they were enjoying the waltz

• great damage was done to the wares

• the father was in a happy mood

• the movements were wild and dangerous

"Still clinging to your shirt" most likely indicates the poet's

• helplessness and innocence

• fear of falling

• love for his father

• enjoyment of the dance

The mood conveyed in the poem is most likely one of

• happiness and enjoyment

• deep sadness and regrets

• resentment and disgust

• fear and tension

The title of the poem, "My Papa's Waltz" is ironic most likely because it suggests

• a child's close relationship with his father

• happiness in the home

• smooth, slow movements, contrary to the dangerous uncalculated steps of the father

• a father's interest in his child