Read the following research paper excerpt and answer the question. according to mario pei, slang is common to english as well as to foreign languages (80). many words that were once considered slang are now words of full, legitimate standing in our language. some of these words are strenuous, spurious, clumsy, and bogus. even shakespeare introduced into current usage such slang terms of his day as hubbub, fireworks, fretful, (to) bump, and (to) dwindle. pei estimates that about 90 per cent of all slang words eventually become permanent (johns 12). what is the author's overall tone? the tone is neutral. the tone is arrogant. the tone is scornful. the tone is inconsistent.

Read the excerpt from infinite jest 'my application's not bought," i am telling them, calling into the darkness of the red cave that opens out before closed eyes. 'tam not just a boy who plays tennis. i have an intricate history. experiences and feelings. i'm complex. "read,' i say. 'i study and read. i bet i've read everything you've read. don't think i haven't. i consume libraries. i wear out spines and rom-drives. i do things like get in a taxi and say, "the library, and step on it." my instincts concerning syntax and mechanics are better than your own, i can tell, with due respect. the theme suggested by the excerpt is about a. being understood b. the value of education c. wisdom versus foolishness d. learning responsibility