Read the lines from “Mr. Flood’s Party.” He sat the jug down slowly at his feet
With trembling care, knowing that most things break;
And only when assured that on firm earth
It stood, as the uncertain lives of men
Assuredly did not, he paced away
How does the word choice in these lines affect the meaning of the poem?

It suggests that where Flood lives is on unstable ground.

It reveals that Flood is not a stable, reliable man.

It conveys the idea that Flood has experienced loss and heartache.

It shows that Flood has broken jugs a few times before.