Black Beauty
As for me, I was so astonished that I did not at first see what was going on by the brook; but when I did look there was a sad sight; two fine horses were down, one was struggling in the stream, and the other was groaning on the grass. One of the riders was getting out of the water covered with mud, the other lay quite still.
The narrator states, "there was a sad sight". Based on the details provided in this paragraph, explain what makes this sight "sad".
💡 Writing Tips
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When answering this question, focus on the descriptive words and phrases the author uses. Look for actions, states, or conditions that convey distress, injury, or lack of movement. Think about why these specific details would make a scene sad. Your answer should draw directly from the text to support your explanation.
📝 Sample Answer
The "sad sight" refers to the grim consequences of the hunting accident witnessed by Black Beauty. It is sad because two "fine horses" are severely impacted: one is described as "struggling in the stream," indicating its fight against the water and potential injury, while the other is "groaning on the grass," which immediately conveys pain and suffering. Furthermore, the human riders are also depicted in a distressing state: one is "getting out of the water covered with mud," suggesting a fall and discomfort, and the other "lay quite still," implying a very serious injury or even death, adding to the somber and tragic atmosphere.
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