AP Literature Practice Quiz 1

In lines 6-22 of the passage, the author compares writing and speaking to illustrate a point. The analogy suggests that just as writing and speaking are two different forms of communication, language and morality are also distinct but interconnected concepts. The author implies that just as one's ability to write and speak effectively can impact their overall communication skills, one's understanding and practice of morality can influence their behavior and actions in everyday life. By using this analogy, the author highlights the importance of both writing and speaking, as well as language and morality, in effectively conveying ideas and living a virtuous life.

The word "solemnity" is grammatically and thematically parallel to the word "tone" because both words refer to the overall mood or atmosphere of a piece of writing or speech. They both convey a sense of seriousness and gravity.

The passage uses a casual and conversational tone, which suggests informality. The author also presents a logical analysis of the topic, examining different perspectives and providing evidence to support their arguments. This analytical approach further supports the description of the tone as analytical.

The second sentence in the passage presents a misconception that the author will correct. This means that the sentence initially provides incorrect information or a false belief, which the author will then address and correct in the rest of the passage.

The author's observation in the sentence beginning "It is clear" can be inferred as a mocking tone because the author is making a sarcastic remark about the clarity of the situation. The use of the phrase "It is clear" suggests that the author is being ironic and implying that the situation is actually not clear at all. This mocking tone is evident in the sentence and indicates the author's attitude towards the subject matter.

The ability discussed in lines 35-38 is referred to as "fine tact" in line 32.

The expression "to pitch upon" is best interpreted as meaning "to succeed in finding." This means that when someone "pitches upon" something, they are able to find or select it successfully.

In line 33, "those" refers to "words" (line 29).

The author uses the phrase "get upon stilts" to illustrate the notion of an unnatural and pretentious writing style. This phrase suggests that the writing style is forced and artificial, as if the writer is trying to elevate their language and ideas to a higher level, but it comes across as awkward and affected. The use of stilts implies a lack of authenticity and a deliberate attempt to appear more sophisticated or important than is necessary.

The term "common speech" refers to unaffected expression. This means that it refers to language that is natural, genuine, and not influenced by any particular style or formality. It suggests that the language used is simple, straightforward, and easily understood by the general public.

The passage describes the speaker as someone who is committed to developing his skills as a writer. This can be inferred from the speaker's discussion about his writing process, his dedication to honing his craft, and his desire to improve his writing skills. The passage does not mention anything about the speaker's interest in being a musician or his motivation being different from jazz musicians. While the passage does not explicitly state that the speaker has talent as both a musician and a writer, it does suggest that the speaker is focused on developing his skills as a writer. There is no indication in the passage that the speaker aspires to greatness but knows that he will never achieve it.

The correct answer is that the drunk was a major source of the noise from which the speaker wished to escape. This is ironic because typically, one would sympathize with someone who is causing a disturbance, but in this case, the speaker does not sympathize with the drunk despite the noise he is making. Instead, the speaker is agitated and wants to escape from the noise.

The correct answer suggests that both the speaker and the drunk were no longer able to feel guilt or responsibility. This can be inferred from the phrase "fellow victims" which implies that they both share a similar experience or situation. The fact that they are unable to feel guilt or responsibility indicates that they have lost control over their actions and emotions, which aligns with the idea of being "victims" of their circumstances.