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

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Why does Mel become frustrated?

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

4. What is the tone of the story as Nick kisses his wife's hand?

5. What is the tone in the beginning of Mel's story about the old couple?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the function of alcohol in Carver's story? How does it act as a catalyst for the plot?

Essay Topic 2

Imagery is used to incorporate any or all of the readers' senses, such as sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. Describe at least 3 instances of imagery in Carver's story. What is the main function of each particular occurrence of imagery?

Essay Topic 3

Syntax is the way an author puts words, sentences, and sections together to form ideas and meanings. It can be overt or subtle, isolated to a portion of the work or universal throughout. Describe the syntax Carver uses in this story. How do specific characteristics about the syntax contribute to the reader's experience of the work?

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This section contains 236 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample