Some interesting Writing questions...

fiona_1
Sun, 14 Sep 2008 22:23:49 +0000

At the reception were the chattering guests, the three-tiered cake, and the lively music that have become characteristic of many wedding celebrations.

I agree with No Error because the overall tense is past. The only reason why the “have become” is because the music is and continues to be wedding celebrations.

For example: Last week, Sarah was at the New York Fashion show which has become the showcase of the world’s top designers.

Even though the Fashion Show was last week, and the verb for Sarah should be was, the New York Fashion Show continues to be the showcase.

Another example: Paris Hilton starred in the racy sex video which has been circulating on the Internet for the past two years.

Yet another example: Lavender was rejected from Harvard, which has become the most prestigious university in America.