Question

The old woman's voice was soft but ........................ .

• A. stern
• B. happy
• C. audible
• D. musical

Hint:

Look for contrasts in descriptions. The word 'but' signals a contrast. A voice that is 'soft but stern' is a powerful image, suggesting quiet strength and authority.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question refers to the description of the main character in Toni Morrison's prose piece, 'Once Upon a Time'. The story is an allegory about the power and responsibility of language.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The central figure is an old, wise, blind woman. When a group of young people comes to mock her wisdom, they pose a riddle.
Her response to them is described in the text. Her voice, though soft, carried weight and authority. It was not angry or loud, but it was serious and firm.
The word stern best captures this quality of being serious and authoritative, creating a contrast with the softness of her voice. It showed that she was not to be trifled with.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The old woman's voice was soft but stern.