The Accidental Tourist | Short Essay Answer Key

Short Essay Answer Key

1. In the car, how are Macon and Sarah's physical appearance symbolic of the state of their marriage?

Macon is pale and wearing a formal suit, and Sarah is tan and has on a strapless dress. The stark contrast of their appearance is symbolic of the emotional distance between them in their marriage.

2. What are Macon's and Sarah's reactions to the stormy weather and why are they significant?

Macon does not alter his driving in any way, as if oblivious to the dangerous conditions and Sarah's obvious fear. At one point, Sarah grips the dashboard. The significance of their opposite reactions reflect, once again, their "stormy" relationship.

3. What have Macon and Sarah gone through over the past year?

Macon and Sarah have lost a child and are mourning his death.

4. What does Sarah tell Macon in the car?

Sarah tells Macon that his...
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