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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does the author characterize Laura?

2. Which of the following is the resolution following the climax?

3. What literary device does the author use in portraying Mel's difficulty in understanding love despite his profession?

4. Which of the following is an important theme in the story?

5. The alcohol in the story has a _________________ effect on the characters.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Symbolism is an important tool authors use to effectively communicate ideas and meanings to the reader. Identify one symbol Carver uses in his story and describe what it symbolizes. What purpose does it serve to have this particular symbol in the story?

Essay Topic 2

Foreshadowing is a common literary technique that indicates what will happen later in the story. Describe 2-3 instances of foreshadowing in this story. Did the author use them effectively?

Essay Topic 3

Characterization refers to the description the author gives of the character's appearance, actions, and thoughts. Discuss the characterization of at least one of the main characters in this story. What could Carver have included that would have enriched the reader's experience of that particular character?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 230 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample