Read the excerpt from "Digging."
"The coarse boot nestled on the lug, the shaft
Against the inside knee was levered firmly."
Which statement best explains the effect of the word "firmly" in this excerpt?
A. It directs the reader's attention back to the squat pen.
B. It suggests that the spade is too heavy for the father.
C. It emphasizes the speaker's distaste for hard work.
D. It shows that the father works with skill and control.
Answer (2)
The word "firmly" in the excerpt emphasizes the father’s skill and control in his labor, reflecting stability and mastery rather than burden. It indicates that the father approaches his work with confidence. Therefore, it suggests that he works with skill and control. ;
The word "firmly" highlights the father's skill and control as he works with confidence. It indicates stability and mastery over his labor rather than suggesting any burden. Therefore, the best explanation is that it shows the father works with skill and control.
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