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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Norman is a fly fisherman and Jessie's brother is a __________________________.

2. What kind of personality does Norman's brother-in-law have?

3. Who arrives at the train station a few days later?

4. What do the brothers always wonder about each other?

5. Who has asked Norman to help his brother-in-law?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where do the two brothers go fishing?

2. On what is the story based?

3. What is Norman's reaction to the phone call?

4. What do Norman and Paul receive in the form of sermons from their father?

5. What do Norman's wife and mother-in-law finally realize about Neal?

6. Why does Norman's mother-in-law enlist Norman's help on Neal's behalf?

7. Who goes on the fishing trip the next morning?

8. What favor does Norman ask of his brother, Paul?

9. What is the occupation of Norman and Paul's father?

10. What do Norman and Paul find when they return to the spot where they left the car?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the symbolism of Jim's final letter to Norman describing Jim's conquest of a large woman. Why did Jim send such a letter? Does he think the large woman is some sort of trophy? What does he want Norman to know from this letter? Would Jim be surprised to learn that Norman thinks that Jim has finally met his match in the large woman?

Essay Topic 2

In spite of their differences, Norman and Paul have learned to respect each other. Name some of the qualities and behaviors that differentiate the two brothers. How are the brothers alike? Why does Mrs. Maclean seem to favor Paul over Norman? Is it because Paul is the baby of the family? Or does Mrs. Maclean know that Paul is especially vulnerable?

Essay Topic 3

Like Neal, Paul also has a problem with alcohol but Paul is able to maintain a home and keep a job. Compare and contrast the characters of Paul and Neal. Unfortunately, Paul's struggle with alcohol has a tragic end. Do you think Paul's personality would have allowed any restrictions or was he a bright flame that was destined to burn out early? What do you think was Neal's fate?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 605 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample