Manhattan Transfer Papers & Assignment Topics

Essay Topics/Writing Assignments

These 20 essay questions can be used as essay questions on a test, or as stand-alone essay topics for a take-home or in-class writing assignment. Students should have a full understanding of the text in order to answer these questions. They ask for a thorough analysis of the text.

1. Ellen Thatcher goes by many names in the book. Discuss and analyze the names she goes by and what is happening in her life at the time of each change.

2. As an adult, Jimmy Herf often slips into daydreams as he is walking or working. How does this ability to daydream affect his job at the Times? Who are characters in his daydreams? What do some of his daydreams mean?

3. Stan Emery is a rich kid who can't seem to find his way in life. Describe his lifestyle...
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