Correct Option: B. Nostalgia Detailed Explanation: Leopold Sedar Senghor's poem "In Memoriam" is a poignant tribute that reflects on themes of loss, memory, and the passage of time. The dominant feeling in the poem is nostalgia, which is a sentimental longing for the past, often in relation to people, places, or experiences that have been lost.

1. Understanding Nostalgia:
2. Nostalgia is characterized by a bittersweet feeling, where one reflects on past experiences with both fondness and a sense of loss. In "In Memoriam," Senghor reminisces about a loved one, evoking memories that are cherished yet tinged with sorrow due to their absence.
3. Textual Evidence:
4. Throughout the poem, Senghor uses vivid imagery and emotional language to evoke memories of the deceased. Phrases that describe the beauty of shared moments and the pain of separation highlight the nostalgic tone. The speaker's reflections on the past create a longing for what once was, which is the essence of nostalgia.
5. Cultural Context:
6. Senghor, as a poet and a statesman, often infused his work with themes of African identity and the collective memory of his people. In "In Memoriam," the nostalgia is not just personal but also reflects a broader cultural longing for connection and heritage, which adds depth to the feeling of nostalgia.

Why Other Options Are Weaker:

• A. Happiness:
• While there may be moments of joy in recalling fond memories, the overall tone of the poem is not one of happiness. Happiness would imply a sense of fulfillment and contentment, which contrasts with the underlying sorrow of loss present in the poem.
• C. Sadness:
• Although sadness is certainly a component of the poem, it does not capture the full emotional spectrum that nostalgia encompasses. Nostalgia includes sadness but also involves a reflective appreciation of the past, making it a more nuanced feeling than mere sadness.
• D. Despair:
• Despair suggests a complete loss of hope and an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. While Senghor expresses sorrow over the loss, the poem does not convey despair. Instead, it reflects a longing for connection and remembrance, which is more aligned with nostalgia than despair.

Revision Summary:

• Nostalgia is the dominant feeling in Senghor's "In Memoriam," characterized by a longing for the past.
• The poem uses vivid imagery and emotional language to evoke memories of a loved one, highlighting both joy and sorrow.
• Other options like happiness, sadness, and despair do not fully capture the complex emotional landscape of the poem.
• Understanding the cultural context of Senghor's work enhances the appreciation of the nostalgic themes present in the poem.