Question

Read the following excerpt from "Ellis Island" by Barbara Davis-Pyle. Then I smiled because all of the questions were over. The men asked Papa and Mama to read some Italian words from a book, and the official stamped our papers. Then he grinned and said in English, “Welcome to the United States of America!” And in that instant, joy won the fight on Mama’s face. We were taken to a boat that would sail us across the harbor to the city and a brand new life. As I boarded I smiled up at Lady Liberty who stood tall with her spoon in hand, ready to stir us in. Which is the main area of influence found in this excerpt? the author’s heritage the author’s family and friends an important event in the author’s life popular culture

Answer 1

Answer:

An important event in the author’s life

Explanation:

The main area of influence in this excerpt is the author’s family and friends. This excerpt describes how the author and family came to the United States. Their coming was very emotional, especially for the author. Throw the author's perspective the reader can notice a description of Lady Liberty and their first step to a new life in the United States. Coming to the new land is noticed in joy and happiness in Mama’s face.

The signs of the important event are shown in moving, crossing the harbor to the city and metaphorical description of Lady Liberty.  This is shown emotionally, the reader can notice in the author’s enthusiasm and the other reaction when they came to the United States.

Answer 2

Answer:

An important event in the author’s life

Explanation:

The main area of influence in this excerpt is an important event in the author’s life: her entry to the United States. The excerpt focuses on this experience, the author here expresses her relief and satisfaction in finally being able to enter the US with her family. Phrases like “ joy won the fight on Mama’s face” and “As I boarded I smiled up at Lady Liberty” reflect the joy of the author and the relevance of this event in her life.