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This test consists of 15 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which of the following best describes the mood of the old woman at the end of Mel's story?
(a) Depressed.
(b) It is not clear.
(c) Calm.
(d) Anxious.

2. As Carver's story progresses, how do Mel and Terri's attitudes toward each other change?
(a) They are indifferent toward each other.
(b) They become more polite to each other.
(c) They fall more in love.
(d) They become more hostile toward each other.

3. Which of the following describes Laura's attitude toward Mel as the evening progresses?
(a) Hostile.
(b) Infatuated.
(c) Sympathetic.
(d) Disgusted.

4. Which of the following describes the literary device Carver uses when Terri and Mel talk about Terri's past relationship in detail?
(a) Dramatic irony.
(b) Imagery.
(c) Flashback.
(d) Symbolism.

5. What can be said to be a motif in Carver's story?
(a) Heat.
(b) Letters.
(c) Love.
(d) The color red.

6. Which of the following is a symbol in this story?
(a) The heart.
(b) Music.
(c) Death.
(d) Alcohol.

7. Why might point of view play a role in how Mel's relationship is perceived by the reader?
(a) The story is told from Mel's point of view, so the reader only understands his relationship.
(b) Point of view does not play a significant role in the story.
(c) The narrator is neutral toward Mel's relationship, allowing for free interpretation by the reader.
(d) The narrator may feel negatively toward Mel's relationship, thereby influencing the reader's opinion.

8. What can describe Mel's behavior as the conversation progresses?
(a) Repressed.
(b) Withdrawn.
(c) Animated.
(d) Loving.

9. Which of the following symbolizes the hopelessness the characters feel about finding real love?
(a) The meal burning in the oven.
(b) The rainstorm.
(c) The discovery that the group's favorite restaurant is closed.
(d) The glass spilling on the table.

10. Which of the following is the resolution following the climax?
(a) The acceptance of Laura by Terri and Nick.
(b) The sun rising.
(c) The characters meditating on the meaning of love.
(d) The compromise between Nick and Mel.

11. What purpose does foil serve in this story?
(a) To display the humorous side of the story.
(b) To underscore the story about the old couple.
(c) To provide a satirical outlet.
(d) To emphasize characters' dramatically different views of love.

12. Who encourages Mel to explore the topic of love?
(a) No one.
(b) His wife.
(c) Laura.
(d) Terri.

13. According to the author, what role do analysis and science play in the meaning of love?
(a) It is not clear.
(b) They contribute to only the physiological responses.
(c) They explain it fully.
(d) None.

14. Over what length of time does this story take place?
(a) About thirty minutes.
(b) Two days.
(c) One evening.
(d) One week.

15. How is the topic of love broached?
(a) The characters are reading the same book.
(b) Mel starts talking about it.
(c) Terri has a dream about love.
(d) Laura's children ask about it.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where are the other characters when Mel begins to talk about love?

2. What does Mel attempt to do to the topic of love?

3. Why does Terri have this reaction to Mel's story about the old couple?

4. With whom does Mel appear to be in conflict over the concept of love more than any other character?

5. Other than Mel, which term best describes the characters in the story?

(see the answer keys)

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