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Question
Explain the following line with reference to the context.
Brutes have been gentled where lashes failed.
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Solution
- Reference: These lines are from the poem “A Father to his Son” written by Carl August Sandburg.
- Context and Explanation: The poet highlights the importance of a soft but firm will to melt even hardened criminals. Love can transform even criminals. Harsh punishment may harden them but gentleness and love may bring about a change of heart.
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| deep desire | manhood | gentleness | mistakes | easy |
| leisure | fool | life | money | repeat |
| tender-flower | rock | challenges | wisdom |
Lines 26-44
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| changes | introspect | inherent | work | resents |
| white lies | creative | final decisions | different |
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