Read the second stanza of "Some Keep the Sabbath Going to Church." Some keep the Sabbath in Surplice – I just wear my Wings – And instead of tolling the Bell, for Church, Our little Sexton – sings. What is the effect of the word “surplice,” which is a garment worn by the clergy, in this stanza?
Answer
A
It reinforces the speaker’s view that great mystery lies at the heart of most religious rituals.
B
It reinforces the difference between the natural things the speaker holds dear and the rituals of the church.
C
It reinforces the poet’s belief that most people feel the need to attend church.
D
It reinforces the poet’s authority by suggesting that she knows quite a bit about religious rituals.
Explanation
“Surplice” refers to the formal clothing worn by clergy, representing church ritual. The speaker contrasts that garment with her own “Wings” and the natural setting where a bird sings instead of a church bell. This highlights the difference between church customs and the natural things the speaker values, so C is correct.
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