Question

In Martha's stories, fairies and gnomes ........................ out in leaf-green light.

• A. stole
• B. ran
• C. came
• D. walked

Hint:

Pay close attention to verbs in poetry—they often carry layers of meaning. Here, 'stole' suggests quiet, magical movement, making the imagery more enchanting.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question is based on the poem 'Martha' by Walter de la Mare. The poem presents Martha as a storyteller who enchants children with her vivid tales of magical beings.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In one of the striking images from her stories, the poem tells how fairies and gnomes stole out in leaf-green light. The use of the word 'stole' conveys a sense of quiet, secretive, and almost stealthy movement, as though the magical beings emerged gently and mysteriously from nature.
This choice of verb enhances the aura of secrecy and wonder that surrounds the fantasy world Martha creates.

Step 3: Final Answer:
In Martha's stories, fairies and gnomes stole out in leaf-green light.