Final answer:
The tone of the poem 'conscientious objector' can be characterized as defiant. The poem's central character refuses to conform to societal expectations, particularly concerning violence and war.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tone of the poem "conscientious objector" by Edna St. Vincent Millay is most appropriately described as defiant. The central character, the 'conscientious objector', declines to follow societal norms or conventions, particularly in relation to war. They also refuse to hear the call of Death, a metaphor for not conforming to violence and war. This clearly exhibits a defiant attitude. The other options, happy, despairing, or comic do not accurately portray the overall sentiment of this piece.
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