The main theme reflected in these lines is, I believe, D) the old can regain honor by taking up challenges again.
A novel usually offers many chapters and possibly, an entire series of books. A short story is only a single story and doesn't offer as many chapter, if any, as a novel would.
"<span>To make fun of the manner of speaking that the writer is criticizing" is the one statement among the following choices given in the question that states the purpose. The correct option among all the options that are given in the question is the first option or option "a". I hope the answer has come to your help.</span>