Question

How does the figurative language in lines 1-4
develop the poem's theme?
A It compares people to land masses, and when one
clod is washed away it lessens the continent; this
develops the theme of connection between
individuals as parts of a whole.
B It compares people to islands, and when one
island loses land it only impacts the one island;
this develops the theme of people who exist
within their own worlds.
clt compares the world to the continent of Europe:
this develops the theme of European expansion
across the world, uniting different parts of it
under colonial rule.
DIt compares different peoples to land masses, and
when one clod is washed away it lessens the
continent; this develops the theme of peace and
unity among different countries.

Answer 1

Answer: A) It compares people to land masses, and when one clod is washed away it lessens the continent; this develops the theme of connection between individuals as parts of a whole.

Explanation: The poem makes a comparison of people with land masses. In the line "If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less" the author is implying that caring for others makes a strong bond. If a man perishes, the people around him suffer, and the world loses a part of it. The author's message is to make the reader acknowledge how important we are to one another, and never take life for granted.