Inferencing Poetry

In line 1, what is the poet comparing hope to?

• a bird

• a storm

• a tune

• a crumb

In lines 5–6, what does the “Gale” and “storm” symbolize?

• everyday weather

• challenges and hardships in life

• freedom and movement

• natural beauty

This question has two parts. Answer Part A and then Part B.

Part A: What is the central theme of the poem?

• Hope can survive even the greatest hardships.

• Hope is difficult to find in times of trouble.

• Hope requires constant effort to maintain.

• Hope comes and goes like the seasons.

Part B: Which two lines best support your answer? (there is more than one answer)

• “That perches in the soul—” (line 2)

• “And sore must be the storm— / That could abash the little Bird” (lines 6–7)

• “And sings the tune without the words—” (line 3)

• “Yet, never, in Extremity, / It asked a crumb—of me.” (lines 11–12)

How does Dickinson personify hope in this poem?

• As a teacher who guides students

• As a bird that sings in the soul

• As a storm that grows stronger

Which statement best summarizes the second stanza (lines 5–8)?

• Hope is only present during peaceful times.

• Hope is strongest when life is most difficult.

• Hope disappears when storms arrive.

• Hope can be shared with others freely.