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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. What kind of vehicle does Dick see pulling into his drive in Chapter 41?

2. To whom does Elsie compare Dick in Chapter 43?

3. Why is Dick angry at Parker?

4. Where does Dick meet with his family after the hurricane?

5. What does Elsie show to Dick?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the damage done to Dick's house mirror the damage to himself?

2. Explain the three forces with which Dick battles during the hurricane.

3. How does Schuyler's documentary put Dick in an unfavorable light?

4. How does Elsie's refusal to have sex again with Dick signal an attempt to help him break a destructive pattern?

5. Describe Dick's state of mind trying to balance May and Elsie in his life.

6. Why is Dick confused about May's comments about what women want in their lives?

7. How do Dick's conflicted feelings about Parker continue to exhibit in Chapter 44?

8. Why does May ask Dick for $100?

9. What mood does the author establish with the brevity of Chapter 47?

10. How does Elsie interpret Dick's comment that they are similar to Marie and Parker?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses several instances of flashbacks in the story. Explain what a flashback is and cite at least two making sure to explain what makes each a flashback?

Essay Topic 2

Explain the ongoing conflict between Dick and Parker. What is the source of the conflict? Why does it perpetuate?

Essay Topic 3

There is much symbolism in this story regarding the spartina growing in the area of Rhode Island. What does the spartina symbolize for the story? What does it symbolize for Dick in particular?

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