Tips for Understanding References and Footnotes in Texts

What can be inferred about the author from the text?

A. is Scottish

B. has a science background

C. is detail-oriented

D. is well-read

E. is environmentally conscious

Answer:

The conclusion of paragraph two and footnotes three and four suggest that the author is well-read. The correct answer in this case is option D.

The final clause of the second paragraph states: "In this glorious Alaska day, calling to mind George Herbert's "Sweet day" being cool, calm, bright, there is a that and a that and twice as muckle's a that."

This reference to poet George Herbert is explained in the footnote at the end of the paragraph. The second footnote provides additional information about a type of shrub (also known as Devil's Club) mentioned in the second paragraph. The way the sentence is structured implies that the author is referencing another person's poetry by mimicking their style, which is significant.

It is reasonable to infer that the author is well-read as a result. Therefore, option D is the correct choice.