Multiple choice

The general tone of the poem can be described as

Directions: Read the passage given below and answer the question by selecting the most appropriate option.

Common Cold

1 Go hang yourself, you old M.D.! You shall not sneer at me. Pick up your hat and stethoscope, Go wash your mouth with laundry soap; I contemplate a joy exquisite I'm not paying you for your visit. I did not call you to be told My malady is a common cold.

2 By pounding brow and swollen lip; By fever's hot and scaly grip; By those two red redundant eyes That weep like woeful April skies; By racking snuffle, snort, and sniff; By handkerchief after handkerchief; This cold you wave away as naught Is the damnedest cold man ever caught !

3 Bacilli swarm within my portals Such as were ne'er conceived by mortals, But bred by scientists wise and hoary In some Olympic laboratory; Bacteria as large as mice, With feet of fire and heads of ice
Who never interrupt for slumber Their stamping elephantine rumba.

  1. satirical and harsh

  2. ironical and mocking

  3. whimsical and humorous

  4. sad and tragic
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The poem uses harsh, satirical language throughout ('go hang yourself,' sarcastic references to the medical profession). While it has elements of humor, the dominant tone is biting satire directed at the medical professional's dismissive attitude, making 'satirical and harsh' the best answer.

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