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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Who can be said to be Mel's foil in this story?
(a) Laura.
(b) Nick.
(c) Ed.
(d) Terri.

2. How does Mel's behavior influence the other characters?
(a) They feel safe and secure.
(b) It encourages them to talk more.
(c) They become afraid and anxious.
(d) They become overwhelmed.

3. How many stages of love are there, according to the author?
(a) It is unclear.
(b) Only one.
(c) Two.
(d) Ten.

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

5. What effect does the alcohol have on the characters by the end of the story?
(a) The characters are all numb.
(b) The characters become angry with one another.
(c) The characters are all laughing.
(d) The characters are all crying.

6. What is the tone of the story as Nick kisses his wife's hand?
(a) Romantic and sweet.
(b) Dull and subdued.
(c) Serious and arcane.
(d) Fast-paced and rushed.

7. Which of the following is a form of entertainment for the characters?
(a) Playing board games.
(b) Singing songs.
(c) Drinking alcohol.
(d) Smoking.

8. What is the tone in the beginning of Mel's story about the old couple?
(a) Humorous.
(b) Sad.
(c) Serious.
(d) Peaceful.

9. The alcohol in the story has a _________________ effect on the characters.
(a) Depressing.
(b) Passionate.
(c) Animated.
(d) Enlightening.

10. Which character is encouraged by the end of the story?
(a) Laura.
(b) No one.
(c) Terri.
(d) Mel.

11. Which character becomes increasingly offensive over the course of the story?
(a) Mel.
(b) Marjorie.
(c) Laura.
(d) Nick.

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

13. With whom does Mel appear to be in conflict over the concept of love more than any other character?
(a) Himself.
(b) Laura.
(c) Marjorie.
(d) Terri.

14. Which of the following is used as a symbol of lack of inhibition in the story?
(a) Prescription medication.
(b) Food.
(c) Alcohol.
(d) Cigarettes.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. Why might point of view play a role in how Mel's relationship is perceived by the reader?

2. What sort of love does Mel have trouble understanding?

3. According to Mel, did Terri love her ex-boyfriend?

4. Who encourages Mel to explore the topic of love?

5. How does the author characterize Laura?

(see the answer keys)

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