In the early part of the story, Lencho compares the falling raindrops to 'new coins' (ten-cent pieces and fives). What does this metaphor signify?
Options
The physical shape and silver-like shine of the rain as it fell from the dark clouds.
The immediate financial prosperity and successful harvest that the rain promised for his ripe cornfield.
The money he would have to spend on purchasing extra water and seeds for the upcoming season.
The frozen hail that would soon turn into valuable silver ice-drops on the ground.
Explanation
Lencho was a hardworking farmer whose entire livelihood depended on his corn crop, which was desperately in need of a downpour. The arrival of rain meant a bumper harvest, which would ultimately be sold in the market to yield money (coins) for his family's sustenance. Thus, he viewed the rain not just as water, but as direct economic wealth. Option A refers only to physical appearance, whereas the metaphor is deeply tied to value. Option C is incorrect as the rain was natural and free. Option D refers to the destructive hailstones which Lencho later compared to 'frozen pearls', not the beneficial raindrops.