Set 9: Transitions
Explanation
PASSAGE
F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby' is often read as a critique of the American Dream. Gatsby's wealth, though vast, cannot buy him acceptance into old-money society. _______ his mansion, though lavish, sits across the bay from Daisy's home—close but forever separated by water.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Detailed Answer Explanation
This question asks you to choose the transition that best connects two ideas. The mansion's position physically represents Gatsby's social position—near but excluded. 'Symbolically' shows how the literal becomes metaphorical. Transitions signal the relationship between sentences or paragraphs. Determine the logical relationship (addition, contrast, cause-effect, example) and select the transition that accurately expresses it. The right transition makes the relationship between ideas crystal clear. Consider what logical connection exists: Is the second idea adding to the first? Contrasting it? Showing a result? The transition should accurately reflect this relationship.
Key Evidence:
• "cannot buy him acceptance"
• "close but forever separated"
Why others are wrong: D (Example - 'Symbolically' better captures the literary relationship.), A (Contrast - the mansion detail reinforces, not contrasts with, the theme.), B (Cause/effect - the mansion location is symbolic, not a logical consequence.).
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