Read this excerpt from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.

Thousands would escape . . . but for the strong cords of affection that bind them to their friends.

What is the effect of the figurative language in this passage?


It helps the reader understand that love and friendship make slaves feel trapped.


It helps the reader understand how precious friends and family are to slaves.


It helps the reader understand that an escaped slave can always be kidnapped and returned to his owner.


It helps the reader understand that a slave's friends and family often put pressure on them not to escape.