In paragraph 2, the author states, "The conundrum is that these mandates - prudent and
necessary as they are - are overlaid against the backdrop of an epidemic of loneliness in
the U.S.” Which of the following sentences best restates this idea?
A. The mystery is that these rules, though necessary, are hidden in the background of
loneliness in America.
B. The problem is that the social distancing orders, even though they are important and
needed, are happening when loneliness is already a problem for many Americans.
C. The challenge is that these rules, which are picky and difficult to follow, are happening
when many are already sick in the U.S.
D. The rules are an unnecessary enigma and will increase the loneliness epidemic.