“The Spanish Dancer” by Rainer Maria Rilke
As a lit match first flickers in the hands
Before it flames, and darts out from all sides
Bright, twitching tongues, so, ringed by growing bands
Of spectators—she, quivering, glowing stands
Poised tensely for the dance—then forward glides
And suddenly becomes a flaming torch.
Her bright hair flames, her burning glances scorch,
And with a daring art at her command
Her whole robe blazes like a fire-brand
From which is stretched each naked arm, awake,
Gleaming and rattling like a frightened snake.
And then, as though the fire fainter grows,
She gathers up the flame—again it glows,
As with proud gesture and imperious air
She flings it to the earth; and it lies there
Furiously flickering and crackling still—
Then haughtily victorious, but with sweet
Swift smile of greeting, she puts forth her will
And stamps the flames out with her small firm feet.
Use the poem to answer the question.
Which phrase(s) help a reader identify the theme? Select all that apply.
A.
“she, quivering, glowing stands”
B.
“Her bright hair flames”
C.
“which is stretched each naked arm”
D.
“the fire fainter grows”
E.
“she puts forth her will”
E. "she puts forth her will"
The theme of a poem is the underlying message or central idea that the poet wants to convey. In this particular poem, "The Spanish Dancer" by Rainer Maria Rilke, the theme can be identified through various phrases that highlight specific elements or actions. The phrases that help a reader identify the theme are:
A. "she, quivering, glowing stands"
This phrase highlights the intense energy and presence of the Spanish dancer, suggesting a theme related to passion or vitality.
B. "Her bright hair flames"
This phrase enhances the image of the dancer as a fiery and vibrant figure, suggesting a theme associated with intensity or expressiveness.
E. "she puts forth her will"
This phrase emphasizes the dancer's agency and determination, suggesting a theme related to empowerment or self-expression.
Therefore, the phrases A, B, and E help a reader identify the theme of the poem.
To identify the theme of the poem, you need to look for recurring ideas or messages that are conveyed throughout the text. Here are the phrases that can help readers identify the theme:
A. "she, quivering, glowing stands"
This phrase suggests the energy and anticipation of the Spanish dancer as she prepares to perform. It implies a sense of readiness and excitement.
B. "Her bright hair flames"
This phrase emphasizes the visual spectacle of the dancer's appearance. It highlights the vibrant and intense nature of the performance.
E. "she puts forth her will"
This phrase indicates the determination and control the dancer has over her performance. It suggests her autonomy and ability to command the stage.
By looking at these selected phrases, we can identify the theme as the power and expression of individuality through performance or art. The poem captures the intense and passionate presence of the Spanish dancer as she captivates her audience with her fierce and controlled movements.