Which word best summarizes Brooke's tone in “The Soldier”?

A. guarded

B. determined

C. uncertain

D. idealistic

it between b and d

Read the poem again and decide whether B or D is the better answer.

The Soldier
Rupert Brooke, 1887 - 1915
If I should die, think only this of me:
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever England. There shall be
In that rich earth a richer dust concealed;
A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware,
Gave, once, her flowers to love, her ways to roam,
A body of England’s, breathing English air,
Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home.

And think, this heart, all evil shed away,
A pulse in the eternal mind, no less
Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given;
Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day;
And laughter, learnt of friends; and gentleness,
In hearts at peace, under an English heaven.

I disagree. Wasn't Brooke rather idealistic about his home country? No country is that perfect.

To determine the word that best summarizes Brooke's tone in "The Soldier," you need to analyze the poem and understand the overall feeling or attitude conveyed by the author. Here's a step-by-step process to arrive at the answer:

1. Read and understand the poem: Familiarize yourself with Rupert Brooke's poem "The Soldier" by reading it carefully. Take note of the themes, the language used, and the emotions conveyed.

2. Identify the recurring emotions: Pay attention to the emotions that the poem evokes. Look for any consistent sentiments or moods throughout the poem.

3. Analyze the language and imagery: Consider the words and phrases used by the poet. Analyze the symbolism, metaphors, and other literary devices used to understand the intended effect on the reader.

4. Evaluate the tone: Based on your analysis, try to pin down the overall tone of the poem. Think about the feelings expressed by the speaker and the attitude conveyed to the reader.

In the case of Brooke's "The Soldier," the tone can be interpreted as idealistic. The poem expresses patriotic sentiments of a soldier who is willing to give his life for his country. It communicates a sense of duty, honor, and a romanticized view of sacrificing oneself for the nation. Therefore, the word that best summarizes Brooke's tone in "The Soldier" is D. idealistic.

Note: It's important to remember that interpretation can vary, and other readers may have different perspectives on the tone of a poem. Close reading and analysis are key to reaching an accurate understanding.