What cues signal a turn in attitude or belief about the subject?

• A. A sudden change in meter.
• B. A shift in pronouns, tone, imagery, or the introduction of a counter-argument.
• C. A new character entering the scene.
• D. The title changing mid-poem.

Answer: (B)

When a poet shifts how they feel or what they’re arguing about the subject, the turn is shown in the language and perspective they use. The clearest signals are how the stance changes through pronouns, tone, imagery, or by bringing in a counter-argument.

A shift in pronouns can reveal a new relationship to the subject—for example, moving from a general statement to speaking directly to the subject, or switching from “I” to “you” or “we.” That shift marks a change in voice and, often, in attitude.

Tone changes are equally telling. If the speaker moves from praising or confident to doubtful, ironic, or critical, that swing signals a new view or a reconsideration of the subject.

Imagery can betray a turn as well. Warm, intimate, or idealized images may give way to cold, harsh, or unsettling ones, reframing how the subject is seen.

Introducing a counter-argument is a strong cue too. Presenting an opposing point of view or evidence and then re-evaluating the subject shows a clear shift in belief.

Metre changes can affect mood, but they aren’t reliable indicators of a change in belief by themselves. A new character appearing or a title changing mid-poem aren’t standard markers of a turn in attitude, so they don’t signal the shift as directly.