“Mutability” and “A Defence of Poetry” by Percy Bysshe Shelley — Quiz
Question 9 • British Literature and Composition
Read the excerpt from "A Defence of Poetry,” We are aware of evanescent visitations of thought and feeling sometimes associated with place or person, sometimes regarding our own mind alone, and always arising unforeseen and departing unbidden. Which lines from "Mutability” most reflect a similar idea?
Answer
A
Or like forgotten lyres, whose dissonant strings Give various response to each varying blast
B
To whose frail frame no second motion brings One mood or modulation like the last
C
We rest.—A dream has power to poison sleep; We rise.—One wandering thought pollutes the day
D
It is the same!—For, be it joy or sorrow, The path of its departure still is free
Explanation
The excerpt describes thoughts and feelings that arrive unexpectedly and then leave without warning. In choice C, “One wandering thought” unexpectedly “pollutes the day,” echoing an unforeseen thought that comes and affects the mind. The other choices focus on changing moods or the freedom of feelings to depart, rather than a sudden wandering thought.
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