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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. According to Suichi, Ichiro's father, why does Ono quit painting?

2. Why doesn't Ono share his feelings about the old pleasure district with Mrs. Kawakami?

3. What position is Shintaro applying for?

4. On what basis do the Sugimura sisters select a buyer for their house?

5. How does Ichiro respond to Setsuko's requests for him to settle down?

Short Essay Questions

1. Suichi says that American heroes are better role models for his son that Japanese heroes. Why would that be?

2. Why does Ono's father burn his paintings?

3. What does Ono see as the result of his confession during the miai?

4. Why does Ono conceal his efforts on her behalf from Noriko during the weeks leading up to the miai?

5. How does the Migi-Hidari show its loyalty to the emperor?

6. Why does Enchi ask Ono to leave when he learns who he really is?

7. What does Ono conceal from Noriko in the weeks leading up to her miai?

8. Why does Suichi become angry at Kenji's funeral ceremony?

9. What does Shintaro ask Ono to do for him?

10. How does Taro behave during the miai?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Bridge of Hesitation is an important symbol in this story and Ono says that he spends a great deal of time there. What does the bridge represent? Are there various possible meanings? Consider the fact that in the midst of the destruction of much of the area, the bridge remained.

Essay Topic 2

There are several places in this story where a character's speech does not reflect their actual opinions. Setsuko's conversations with her father are examples. Select and analyze a scene where you are able to establish that what is being said is not genuine. How do you know? How is the writer able to convey that double message to you as a reader?

Essay Topic 3

We learn about Suichi's character through what he instructs Setsuko, what he wants for Ichiro, and the way he behaves when Kenji's ashes are brought home. Describe this young man based on textual evidence. Ono expresses the belief that Suichi has been "embittered." What embittered him?

(see the answer keys)

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