Read this passage from the reflective essay “This Is Spinal Fusion.” The product looked medieval: a portable, plastic iron maiden. Instead of spikes, though, the prosthetic was to use hard, round protuberances to torment me.

What effect is the writer’s use of figurative language supposed to have on readers?
a.
It helps readers understand the history of punishment in medieval times.

b.
It helps readers understand the writer’s negative feelings about wearing it.

c.
It makes readers think the writer was lucky the brace didn’t really have spikes.

d.
It makes readers think the writer is likely to exaggerate difficult experiences.