Little Mermaid Poem Analysis
XAT 2022 · Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning · Medium · Poem Comprehension
Passage / data set
Read the poem carefully, and answer the TWO questions that follow.
It hurts to walk on new legs: The curse of consonants. The wobble of vowels. And you for whom I gave up a kingdom Can never love that thing I was. When you look into my past You see Only weeds and scales. Once I had a voice. Now I have legs. Sometimes I wonder Was it a fair trade?
Question 1 of 2
Which of the following statements BEST reflects the theme of the poem?
- A.
Our concern for loss is more than what we gain.
- B.
Our quest for love is accompanied with pain.
- C.
Our loss of identity is irreparable.
- D.
As the future unfolds, our distant past looks pleasant.
- E.
Nostalgic recollection undermines materialistic gains.
B
Explanation
The poem highlights giving up one's identity/voice for love, bringing physical and emotional pain and doubt ('Was it a fair trade?').
Question 2 of 2
What does the author BEST mean by "Once I had a voice. /Now I have legs?"
- A.
The poet is contemplative of his/her identity
- B.
The poet has lost his/her speech
- C.
The poet puts less value on the new world
- D.
The poet's actions speak louder than his/her words now
- E.
The poet is indecisive about choosing between the two worlds
A
Explanation
The contrast between having a voice vs. legs reflects deep contemplation of lost vs. acquired identity.
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