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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?

SAT · English · previous-year question

  1. A.It introduces a contrast between Dickinson’s personality and her writing style.
  2. B.It clarifies the reason why Dickinson’s writing was often marked by a sense of isolation.
  3. C.It provides a specific example of Dickinson’s writing that is often marked by a sense of isolation.
  4. D.It suggests a connection between Dickinson’s decision to withdraw from society and her ability to experience deep emotion.correct

Answer

D. It suggests a connection between Dickinson’s decision to withdraw from society and her ability to experience deep emotion.

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 au

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