How does the narrator in "Exhalation" most clearly change from the beginning to the end of the story?A.By the end of the story, he is humble and not arrogant.B.By the end of the story, he is more rebellious than obedient.C.By the end of the story, he is more philosophical than scientific.D.By the end of the story, he is cautious and not a risk taker.SUBMITarrow_backPREVIOUS
Question
How does the narrator in "Exhalation" most clearly change from the beginning to the end of the story?A.By the end of the story, he is humble and not arrogant.B.By the end of the story, he is more rebellious than obedient.C.By the end of the story, he is more philosophical than scientific.D.By the end of the story, he is cautious and not a risk taker.SUBMITarrow_backPREVIOUS
Solution
In "Exhalation" by Ted Chiang, the narrator undergoes a significant transformation from the beginning to the end of the story. Initially, the narrator is a scientist who is curious and analytical, focusing on the mechanics of his world. However, as the story progresses, he becomes more philosophical in his approach.
The narrator begins by dissecting a deceased being from his world to understand the mechanics of their lungs. He is driven by a scientific curiosity and a desire to understand the physical world around him. This is a very scientific approach, focusing on tangible, measurable aspects of reality.
However, as the story progresses, the narrator begins to contemplate the implications of his findings. He realizes that the air (or 'argon') in their lungs is not replenishable and that his world is essentially running out of 'life'. This leads him to ponder on the nature of existence, the inevitability of the end, and the value of the time they have.
By the end of the story, he is no longer just a scientist, but a philosopher. He is not just interested in the 'how' but also the 'why'. He contemplates the meaning of life, the nature of existence, and the inevitability of death. He even goes as far as to say that the purpose of their existence might be to bear witness to the universe.
So, the answer is C. By the end of the story, he is more philosophical than scientific.
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