The speaker in Poppies is best described as feeling?

• A. Fear for her son's safety
• B. Confidence in his decision
• C. Resentment toward his departure
• D. Indifference to his departure

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is the speaker’s emotional response to her son going to war, shown through tone and imagery that reveal her inner state. The mother’s actions—preparing him, tying his laces, and choosing small details to say goodbye—are threaded with worry and a protective instinct. The language and imagery of the poem echo her fear of what might happen to him, rather than calm confidence or anger. She feels the ache of separation and the danger he faces, which points to fear for his safety as the most fitting description.

This isn’t about pride in a decision or about resentment or indifference. While she may acknowledge the situation and feel sadness, the dominant mood is apprehension and concern for his safety as he steps into an uncertain future.