A Grief Observed | Short Essay Answer Key

Short Essay Answer Key

1. Why does Lewis think that grief is like fear? Describe the ways in which Lewis experiences fear.

Lewis reflects that the feeling of grief he experiences is like being afraid. Lewis notices that his fear shows itself in physical ways. While Lewis is not actually afraid, he has a fluttery stomach as one does when one is afraid.

2. How does Lewis try to convince himself that he does not mind H.'s death? Provide examples of the things that Lewis tells himself.

Lewis tells himself that he was happy before he met H. He writes that love is not everything.

3. Lewis is surprised about the way that grief intrudes upon his daily responsibilities. What are some symptoms Lewis experiences about the laziness of grief?

Lewis cannot be bothered to write or even to read a letter. Lewis cannot bring himself to care about shaving.