Q142842 – Língua Inglesa – Centro de Seleção da UFG 2022

The word “whatif” is presented to the reader as a noun which expresses uncertainty. Therefore, the noun “doubt” can be used as a synonym to replace the original word in every occurrence in the text without changing the expected meaning.

The rhyming couplet was the scheme chosen by the author to interrupt a dynamic movement in the poem. The rhyming couplets are sustained throughout the poem as we can see in the rhyming pairs: here – ear; cry – die; dance – then.

The concerns presented in the poem suggest the literary persona posing the questions is under age. This interpretation can be sustained based on the fact that the problems presented are mostly related to formal education, growth and family life.

The narrator, towards the end of the poem, shows confidence that the problems which had been anticipated did not come true. The last two verses in the poem assert the following nights will not carry the same concerns and point to a quiet sleep.