Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

What effect can the use of short sentences create in writing?

1. A sense of formality and detachment

2. Emphasis and passion in the content

3. A slower pace in the narrative

4. A complex understanding of the subject

The correct answer is: Emphasis and passion in the content

The use of short sentences in writing often creates a sense of emphasis and passion in the content. Short sentences tend to convey an immediacy and urgency, drawing the reader's attention to specific ideas or feelings. When an author uses short, punchy sentences, it can heighten the emotional impact of the passage, making the writing feel more intense and focused. This stylistic choice can also allow particular phrases or concepts to stand out, making them memorable and potent for the reader. In narrative contexts, short sentences can add a dramatic flair, stirring excitement or tension. This can effectively engage the reader and evoke strong feelings about the events or characters being described. Therefore, the energy generated by the concise phrasing both clarifies and enhances the underlying emotion of the content.