In his essay "The Symbolism of Poetry," William Butler Yeats argues that which of the following is the purpose of rhythm ?
Correct answer: B. To "prolong the moment of contemplation"
- A. To "amplify and clarify the indistinct emotions created by metaphorical symbols"
- B. To "prolong the moment of contemplation"
- C. To "counteract the forces of dispersal inherent in metaphorical language"
- D. To "make poetry new"
Explanation
Yeats argues that rhythm helps prolong the moment of contemplation, allowing the mind to remain absorbed in the emotion or image created by poetry. “Make poetry new” is associated with modernist innovation, not Yeats's stated purpose of rhythm here.
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