16Hit1600
Craft and StructureHardTwo views on a composer's late simplicity

Craft and Structure practice question

Text 1 The composer's late works are simpler than his early ones because his hearing failed and he could no longer manage complex textures. Text 2 The late works are simpler on the page but not in the ear: their few notes are placed so that each carries more weight, and the composer's letters describe the simplicity as a choice made years before his hearing declined.

How would the author of Text 2 most likely respond to Text 1?

  1. A. By arguing that the simplicity was deliberate rather than a consequence of deafness.Correct
  2. B. By agreeing that deafness explains the late style.
  3. C. By denying that the late works are simpler on the page.
  4. D. By claiming the composer never lost his hearing.

Answer: A. By arguing that the simplicity was deliberate rather than a consequence of deafness.

A choice, made before the deafness.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. By agreeing that deafness explains the late style.
Text 2 rejects that explanation.
C. By denying that the late works are simpler on the page.
Text 2 grants the simplicity on the page.
D. By claiming the composer never lost his hearing.
Text 2 mentions the decline in hearing.

More Craft and Structure questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.