Question

Which sentence best summarizes the idea the poet intends to emphasize by using paradox in this stanza? The light of smiles shall fill again The lids that overflow with tears; And weary hours of woe and pain Are promises of happier years. (from "Blessed Are They That Mourn" by William Cullen Bryant) People tend to remember good times and forget bad times. Sorrow makes people wish for good times. Bad times must necessarily give way to better times. Happiness is the most important quality in life.

Answer 1

It is bad times must necesseraly give way to better times. The light of smiles shall fill again the lids that owerflow with tears basically mean smile will overcome tears and the second sentence means that painful times promise a better life in the future.
hope i could help :)