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Re: Avant-garde poetry is often said to be (i) ______ conventional verse
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12 May 2026, 09:59
Explanation
The clues for the first two blanks are found in the middle of the passage, while the third blank is revealed by the shift at the end.
The passage starts by describing the common perception of avant-garde poetry. It notes that its images are "more arresting" and its syntax "more adventurous."
Because the poetry is described as adventurous and arresting compared to traditional work, it is viewed as superior to conventional verse in its creativity. (A)
If the poetry uses adventurous syntax and arresting images, it moves away from how we talk daily. Therefore, its relation to everyday language is estranged from ordinary speech.
The phrase "That consensus, at least, seems to unite critics and casual readers alike" indicates that everyone agrees avant-garde poetry is different and "superior."
The "as" indicates that the readers' actions reflect this belief. Even though they think avant-garde is "superior," they still prefer traditional forms. To align with the idea that avant-garde is better, they would feel the need to disavow (deny or disclaim) their actual preference for traditional forms.
The word "Yet" at the end provides the "pivot." It suggests that despite this reputation for being adventurous and "superior," many experimental poems are actually just as "beholden to formula" (predictable) as traditional sonnets.
Answer: A,E,I