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Questions and Answers
What does the speaker compare the creature's drinking to?
What does the speaker compare the creature's drinking to?
The speaker compares the creature's drinking to the behavior of cattle.
What duality is represented in the voices the speaker hears regarding the snake?
What duality is represented in the voices the speaker hears regarding the snake?
One voice advises to kill the snake, while the other expresses a liking for it and a wish for its peaceful departure.
Why is the snake considered 'innocent' in Sicily?
Why is the snake considered 'innocent' in Sicily?
The black snakes are considered innocent, while the gold snakes are known to be venomous.
In what way does the setting influence the speaker's attitude toward the snake?
In what way does the setting influence the speaker's attitude toward the snake?
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What metaphorical significance does the phrase 'burning bowels of the earth' have in the context of the poem?
What metaphorical significance does the phrase 'burning bowels of the earth' have in the context of the poem?
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Study Notes
A Man and a Calf
- A man observes a calf drinking water.
- The calf's actions are described as those of a drinking cattle, including looking vaguely at the man and flicking its tongue.
- The calf is described as earth-brown and earth-golden, highlighting its connection to the land, specifically Sicilian July with Etna smoking.
- The narrator's internal conflict is presented.
- The narrator's education, and the perceived nature of a snakes, suggests the calf should be killed.
- A voice within the narrator questions the action, and highlights affection for the calf and the quiet way it came for water.
- The desire for the calf to depart peacefully and thanklessly is presented.
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Description
Explore the complex relationship between a man and a calf in this reflective quiz. Delve into the narrator's internal conflict and his observations of the calf's behavior against the backdrop of Sicilian summer. This quiz invites you to think critically about themes of affection, nature, and moral dilemmas.