The romantic character of the place delighted me; i was very much amused by the air of adventure and intrigue that prevailed in this region of masks and gondolas; and i was exceedingly smitten by a pair of languishing black eyes, that played upon my heart from under an italian mantle. so i persuaded myself that i was lingering at venice to study men and manners. at least i persuaded my friends so, and that answered all my purpose. what statement best describes the narrator in this excerpt?
a. internal conflict
b. the plot’s climax
c. the theme or message
d. a character’s thoughts

"if we never experience the chill of a dark winter, it is very unlikely that we will ever cherish the warmth of a bright summer’s day. nothing stimulates our appetite for the simple joys of life more than the starvation caused by sadness or desperation. in order to complete our amazing life journey successfully, it is vital that we turn each and every dark tear into a pearl of wisdom, and find the blessing in every curse." anthon st. maarten, divine living: the essential guide to your true destiny. what does this quote mean to you? this isn't for anything in particular, i just wanted to know. : )