Question

read the excerpt from \digging.\
till his straining rump among the flowerbeds
bends low, comes up twenty years away
stooping in rhythm through potato drills
where he was digging.
which statement best explains the effect of the word \straining\ in this excerpt?
○ it emphasizes that working in fields is difficult and strenuous.
○ it draws attention to the speakers connection to the field.
○ it suggests that the father does not want to plant new potatoes.
○ it reveals that potatoes were the main crop of ireland.

Explanation:

The word "straining" describes physical exertion. In the excerpt, it modifies the father's rump as he digs, highlighting the physical difficulty and effort of the field work. The other options are not supported: the word does not focus on the speaker's connection, the father's willingness, or Ireland's main crop.

Answer:

It emphasizes that working in fields is difficult and strenuous.