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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Ray have to baby along the trip?

2. What is the purpose of the Louisiana island now?

3. Who agrees to pay all the expenses for the trip?

4. What does Guy hold while in the hammock in his yard?

5. When does Guy promise to pay Ray for everything he lost?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Ray's character begin to develop and what does it seem will be Ray's perspective on life?

2. What prompted Norma's running away with Guy?

3. Why does Ray decide to pursue Norma and Guy and what preparations does he make?

4. What does Dr. Symes blame his failures on and what advice does he give to Ray?

5. Who is Webster Spooner and how does Ray meet him?

6. Why is Ray forced to use some of Dr. Symes' money at the hotel?

7. What does Mrs. Symes believe about her son when she sees him and why will she not give the land in Louisiana to him?

8. Who is Dr. Reo Symes and why does Ray take him with him on the trip?

9. Why did Ray not see the signs that Norma was unhappy in her life?

10. What were some of Dr. Symes' past schemes according to his mother?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of regret. Identify at least two examples about regret in the book. Then explain how each example supports the theme of regret.

Essay Topic 2

Create a brief character study of Ray Midge. What does he look like? What are his positive personality traits? What are some of his negative characteristics? What are his hopes and fears? What motivates him during his lifetime?

Essay Topic 3

Portis is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony. Briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

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This section contains 955 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample