Question

Read the excerpt below and answer the question. Men have tried hard to put away the dark; A million lighted windows brilliantly Inlay with squares of gold the winter night, But to us standing here there comes the stark Sense of the lives behind each yellow light, And not one wholly joyous, proud, or free. What is the meaning of these lines in the closing sestet of “Lights”?

Answer 1

People have tried their best to drive darkness away on a winter night by adorning their houses with lots of brightly shining lights. However, no one can truly eradicate the gloom that everyone shares. There is something missing in moments like these. Joy is limited, pride is unfounded, and freedom is controlled. Behind the seemingly bright and happy atmosphere; man’s efforts cannot surpass or suppress nature’s power. Winter has the power to suspend life; and all humans can do is to wait for it to take its time and leave; and come back again and again bringing with it the same gloom and darkness.

Answer 2

C. People use the lights to brighten and mask the dreariness of their lives.