PSAT Reading Question 408: Answer and Explanation

Question: 408

How do the opening lines of the essay, lines 1–4 ("Kaspar . . . this soon"), serve to illustrate the overall internal conflict throughout the passage?

• A. Almayer's dreams of wealth are interrupted by mundane reality.
• B. Almayer's lack of cultural proficiency prevents him from achieving internal peace.
• C. Almayer's relatively low personal assertiveness keeps him from having fulfilling relationships.
• D. Almayer's struggles with hallucinations haunt his quest for rational thought.

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) The passage begins with an "unpleasant voice" interrupting Almayer's dreams of a "splendid future." This pattern is characteristic of the passage as a whole. Almayer imagines a life of wealth but is constantly reminded of his dull, wretched reality, making choice (A) correct. Choices (B) and (C) are not evidenced by the passage; actually, Almayer demonstrates both cultural proficiency and assertiveness. Choice (D) wrongfully assumes that Almayer wishes to be grounded in the rational when actually he prefers his wishful fantasies.