The bright flames were dancing personification​

Explanation:

literally means flickering, waving and dipping flame. However, in figurative language, yes it is the use personification, as flame cannot dance and it is a human trait.

alone =having no one else present.

- "the answers are a and b.  

when cullen speaks of planting while others reap, and standing "abject and mute," he is speaking about the racial injustices present in american society. as these injustices have changed over time, the american identity  has also shifted. those changes are, in turn, reflected in american literature."