Which of the following statements BEST explains why "I Am Offering This Poem" is considered a lyric poem?

A. It is a simple poem that tells a story.
B. It is a tragic poem that teaches a lesson.
C. It is a short poem that expresses strong emotion.
D. It is a rhyming poem that reveals passion

This site has your answer.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lyric_poetry

C. It is a short poem that expresses strong emotion.

The reason "I Am Offering This Poem" is considered a lyric poem is because it is a short poem that expresses strong emotion. Lyric poetry is typically characterized by its intense emotional expression and personal reflection. In this poem, the speaker's emotions are deeply conveyed through their words, making it a lyric poem rather than a simple narrative or didactic poem.

To determine which statement best explains why "I Am Offering This Poem" is considered a lyric poem, let's analyze each option.

A. It is a simple poem that tells a story.
Lyric poems typically focus on the expression of personal emotions and thoughts rather than telling a story. While "I Am Offering This Poem" is indeed a simple poem, it does not primarily aim to narrate a story.

B. It is a tragic poem that teaches a lesson.
Lyric poems focus more on emotion and personal reflection rather than teaching lessons or exploring tragedy. While the poem might contain elements of tragedy, it does not solely serve to teach a lesson.

C. It is a short poem that expresses strong emotion.
This statement aligns well with the characteristics of a lyric poem. Lyric poems aim to convey the poet's emotions, thoughts, or inner world. "I Am Offering This Poem" is a concise poem that expresses the speaker's emotions of love and gratitude, reinforcing this option as a strong explanation.

D. It is a rhyming poem that reveals passion.
While some lyric poems may contain rhyme and showcase passion, it's important to note that lyricism is not solely defined by rhyme. "I Am Offering This Poem" does not extensively employ rhyme, thus making this option a less accurate explanation.

Therefore, the statement that BEST explains why "I Am Offering This Poem" is considered a lyric poem is option C: It is a short poem that expresses strong emotion.