Question

Read the following information and answer the question. Spanish dancers often use castanets: "two joined pieces of wood or ivory snapped together between the palm and the fingers." (The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia, under "Percussion Instrument.") Which line(s) from the poem "Spanish Dancer" suggest that the dancer is using castanets? (A) "a kitchen-match darts white/flickering tongues" (B) "with the audience around her, quickened hot"(C) "like startled rattlesnakes, the long/naked arms uncoil"(D) "as if the fire were too tight/around her body, she takes and flings it out"

Answer 1

Answer: I would contend that the right answer is the C) "like startled rattlesnakes, the long / naked arms uncoil."

Explanation: Just to elaborate a little bit on the answers, it can be added that the two halves of a castanet, which can be made out of wood or other material, are joined by a cord that usually goes around the thumb, while the other fingers tap the surface, creating a very characteristic and cheerful sound. In the poem, the speaker compares this sound and visual image of the dancer playing the castanets to surprised rattlesnakes that unfold in an (usually frantic) movement.