Read the quotation from "Some Keep the Sabbath Going to Church." And instead of tolling the Bell, for Church, Our little Sexton – sings. What is the most likely reason for the poet to oppose the phrases “tolling the Bell” and “sings” in these lines?
Answer
A
The poet is expressing her belief that the second, more natural option is far more desirable than the first option.
B
The poet is contrasting her attitude about religion with her feelings about the natural world, which remains largely unappreciated.
C
The poet is suggesting that those who worship in nature are more formal than those who worship in church.
D
The poet is hinting that religious worship should be considered a gloomy and serious activity.
Explanation
“Tolling the Bell” suggests the formal, man-made routine of church worship, while “sings” describes the natural sound of a bird acting as the speaker’s “little Sexton.” By setting these phrases against each other, Dickinson presents worship in nature as a more appealing alternative to attending church. Choice A best captures the preference for the natural option.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.