Meaning of figurative language: The metaphor presents an implicit comparison between the girl's mental state and her unhappiness with a cloudy, melancholy and dull day.
Effect on tone and mood: The metaphor promotes a melancholy tone and a sad mood, as it shows how racism and intolerance can end the happiness of a child who is being prevented from having fun just by the color of her skin.
Effect on audience: This allows the audience to feel uncomfortable with racism, because it realizes how depressing it is for those who are attacked by it.
Number 2 would be the best answer because it can be backed with evidence, and doesn't just contain opinions. It is also has the main points for the essay listed out, which helps organize the writing.