Question 25

Troubled thoughts work themselves out naturally over time.

The imagery of the stream in the extract emphasizes the idea that, much like water flowing through a landscape, troubled thoughts can eventually find resolution and clarity as time progresses.

A) unpleasant weather can corrupt and pollute the purity of running water

This option incorrectly focuses on negative environmental impacts rather than the mental processes described in the extract. The passage does not present weather as a corrupting force but rather highlights the natural progression of thoughts akin to the flow of water.

B) the natural beauty of running water can reflect its surroundings

While this option touches on the aesthetic aspect of water, it misses the core theme of the passage, which is about the resolution of troubled thoughts. The extract does not explicitly relate the beauty of the water to the environment around it.

C) troubled thoughts work themselves out naturally over time

This is the correct choice, as the imagery of the stream suggests a natural process of resolution. Just as water flows and eventually finds its way, the passage implies that thoughts can also work through difficulties and reach a state of clarity.

D) time tends to make chaotic thoughts more disruptive

This option contradicts the essence of the passage. Instead of suggesting that time exacerbates chaos, the imagery indicates that time facilitates the resolution of turmoil, much like a stream gradually smoothing out jagged rocks.

Conclusion

The correct answer, C, is supported by the imagery of the stream, which symbolizes the natural resolution of troubled thoughts over time. Other options either misinterpret the theme of the passage or introduce unrelated concepts, ultimately failing to capture the essence of the speaker's message about the flow and resolution of thoughts.