Question

how are the themes of \we wear the mask\ and \a man said to the universe\ similar?
both show how humans can be helpless in the face of external forces.
both state that large, powerful forces such as society are illusions.
both illustrate the environments indifference to humankind.
both demonstrate why people must hide their suffering in order to survive.

Explanation:

In "We Wear the Mask", people hide their true feelings due to societal pressure. In "A Man Said to the Universe", the universe shows indifference to the man's existence. Both poems show humans' power - lessness in the face of external forces like society and the universe.

Answer:

A. Both show how humans can be helpless in the face of external forces.