Seed Leaves

Which lines support the tone established in line 1?

• "It could be seedling maple,"

• "Forced to make choice of ends,"

• "This plant would like to grow"

• "Takes aim at all the sky"

What is the theme of the poem as it is revealed through the symbolism of a seedling as a young child?

• defying authority and expectations

• absorbing knowledge in order to grow

• becoming what those around you expect of you

• boldly trying to avoid conforming to society

Which set of lines illustrates the plant's initial reluctance to grow?

• "Toothless and fat, they keep The oval form of sleep."

• "This plant would like to grow And yet be embryo;"

• "Be vaguely vast, and climb To the tip end of time"

• "But something at the root More urgent than the urge"

How do lines 5-8 add to the meaning of the poem?

• by providing a description of the type of plant that is sprouting

• by highlighting the visual description of the seedling

• by explaining the process that is taking place as the seed sprouts

• by analyzing the uncertainty as to what type of plant is growing

What does "heaves Aloft" mean in lines 11-12?

• pulls itself upward

• presses itself against

• expands slowly

• folds down