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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 terms refers to the literal definition of 'heart'?
(a) Connotation.
(b) Imagery.
(c) Symbolism.
(d) Denotation.

2. To whom does Mel become abusive?
(a) Laura.
(b) Nick.
(c) Himself.
(d) Terri.

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

4. 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) The narrator is neutral toward Mel's relationship, allowing for free interpretation by the reader.
(c) The narrator may feel negatively toward Mel's relationship, thereby influencing the reader's opinion.
(d) Point of view does not play a significant role in the story.

5. What is the overall mood of the characters by the end of the story?
(a) Passionate.
(b) Depressed.
(c) Enlightened.
(d) Cheerful.

6. How does the author characterize Laura and Terri's relationship?
(a) Based on the fact that they work together.
(b) Somewhat distant.
(c) Very close and sisterly.
(d) Focused on lots of shared interests.

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

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

9. Why does Mel's behavior worsen throughout the story?
(a) He is humbled by the narrator.
(b) He likes the moonlight.
(c) He likes the sun coming in through the window.
(d) He drinks more and more.

10. What literary tool is used in the story of the old couple and Mel and Terri's relationship?
(a) Anthropomorphism.
(b) Alliteration.
(c) Parallelism.
(d) Imagery.

11. Where are the other characters when Mel begins to talk about love?
(a) The author does not say.
(b) Outdoors.
(c) At the table.
(d) At a restaurant.

12. Which of the following are included in the plot of Carver's story?
(a) The story takes place in early morning.
(b) Four characters gather in someone's home.
(c) Nick thinks back to a previous relationship.
(d) The characters are much happier at the end of the story.

13. How many purposes does the alcohol serve in this story?
(a) Two.
(b) Five.
(c) It is unclear.
(d) None.

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

15. According to the author, how common are the stages of love the couples are experiencing?
(a) They are unique to these couples.
(b) They are common to Western European couples.
(c) They are universal.
(d) They are common to couples their age.

Short Answer Questions

1. Did Mel truly love his first wife?

2. According to the author, Mel's profession requires a significant amount of:

3. How are the two couples different from other people in a relationship?

4. Which of the following describes the literary device Carver uses when Terri and Mel talk about Terri's past relationship in detail?

5. Which character has the dominant role in the story?

(see the answer keys)

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