Question

Which best describes one reason why "Sympathy" is a naturalist poem?
It addresses the effects of racism and oppression in society.
It gives a description of the bird's wings as it tries to escape.
It illustrates the factors leading to the bird's imprisonment.
It rejects the idea that society influences the individual.

Answer 1

Answer:

"It addresses the effects of racism and oppression in society"  describes that sympathy is a naturalist poem.

Explanation:

Paul Laurence Dunbar writes this poem metaphorically comparing oppression and racism that he faced during his time compared to a caged bird. This likely refers to the oppression done to African-Americans during 1899 – the same time where the author wrote this poem. The important aspect of this poem is it does not exclusively contain the word “race” or “racism” but through the description itself he lets the reader about the oppression and racism that he faced.

Answer 2

Answer:

A. It addresses the effects of racism and oppression in society

Explanation:

edge 2020