Why would the effects of a powerful intraplate earthquake be much greater if it struck New Madrid now than they were in 1911?

Due to more infrastructure.

Explanation:

The effects of a powerful intraplate earthquake is much greater if it struck New Madrid now than they were in 1911 because there are large number of buildings in New Madrid as compared to 1911. These buildings can't bear the impact of that earthquake intensity so it can cause more damage to the infrastructure and huge number of people's life will be in danger.

if you could provide the poem below, i'd be happy to you!

explanation:

you didn't give us the poem, or the title of the poem. but it is essential for you to give us that, otherwise we can not detect when the poem has a tonal shift!