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Question 90 of 327

This is my letter to the world
That never wrote to me
The simple news that Nature told
With tender majesty

Her message is committed
To hands I cannot see;
For love of her, sweet countrymen
Judge tenderly of me'

To whom does 'her' in line 5 refer?

  • A. majesty
  • B. world
  • C. tender
  • D. Nature

Correct Answer: D

Explanation
The correct option is D. Nature. Explanation of the Answer
  1. Understanding the Context: The poem begins with the speaker addressing "the world" and expressing a sense of isolation, as the world has never written to her. The speaker then mentions "the simple news that Nature told," which indicates that Nature is a significant theme in the poem.
  2. Analyzing Line 5: In line 5, the phrase "Her message is committed" uses the pronoun "her." To determine what "her" refers to, we need to look at the preceding lines for context. The previous lines mention "Nature," which is personified as a source of wisdom and majesty.
  3. Identifying the Antecedent: The word "her" is a possessive pronoun that typically refers back to a noun that has been mentioned earlier in the text. In this case, the only feminine noun that has been introduced is "Nature." Therefore, "her" logically refers to Nature, as it is the only entity that fits the context of delivering a message.
  4. Thematic Connection: The poem emphasizes the relationship between the speaker and Nature. By referring to Nature as "her," the speaker imbues Nature with a sense of agency and personhood, suggesting that Nature communicates important truths to humanity. This connection reinforces the idea that Nature is a nurturing and guiding force.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
  • A. Majesty: While "majesty" is mentioned in the poem, it is not a person or entity that can convey a message. Instead, it describes the grandeur of Nature. Therefore, "her" cannot refer to "majesty."
  • B. World: The "world" is addressed in the opening lines, but it is depicted as indifferent or unresponsive to the speaker. The world does not have the qualities of nurturing or conveying messages, making it an unsuitable antecedent for "her."
  • C. Tender: The word "tender" is an adjective describing the nature of the message or the feelings involved. It does not refer to a person or entity, so it cannot be the antecedent for "her."
Summary of Key Points
  • The pronoun "her" in line 5 refers to "Nature," which is the only feminine noun in the context.
  • The poem emphasizes the relationship between the speaker and Nature, portraying Nature as a source of wisdom and guidance.
  • The other options (majesty, world, tender) do not fit the context or possess the qualities necessary to be the antecedent for "her."
Revision Summary
  • "Her" in line 5 refers to "Nature," as established in the poem's context.
  • Nature is personified, suggesting it communicates important messages to humanity.
  • The other options do not fit the context or lack the necessary qualities to be the antecedent for "her."
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