1. What is the juxtaposition of Jimmy's comments about Tug's inability to lie convincingly with Jimmy's question about Tug's medication intended to convey?
(a) Jimmy believes that Tug does not need his medication.
(b) Jimmy believes that Tug has medication to sell him.
(c) Jimmy believes that Tug should be on a higher dose of his medication.
(d) Jimmy believes that Tug is off his medication.

2. What is Tansey doing when Teddy says that he "gouged the baize" (31)?
(a) Using his cue to tap the wooden edge of the table.
(b) Ripping the surface of the pool table.
(c) Executing a trick shot.
(d) Sinking the shot that wins the game.

3. On the day the story opens, what does Bat do after dinner but before he starts drinking?
(a) Tries to call Tain.
(b) Rides his motorcycle.
(c) Looks in the paper for another job.
(d) Goes to church.

4. What makes Bat feel out of place at the gathering at The Yellow Belly?
(a) The group talks about philosophy and politics, which he knows little about.
(b) Many people in the groups stare at his drooping lip and scars.
(c) The group talks mostly about their shared experiences in college.
(d) Many people in the group stand away from him and avoid talking to him.

5. When Jimmy snaps at Tug about his speculation about Wayne Clancy, how does Tug react?
(a) He laughs.
(b) He seems hurt.
(c) He seems angry.
(d) He keeps talking about it.

Short Answer Questions

1. When Martina describes "Father Time" as "about two hundred years old" and having a "mountainous shaggy white beard," what technique is being used (47)?

2. How does Sarah defend herself when Tansey tries to drag her with him?

3. What technique is used in the sentence, "Slender reeds brush against one another as cleanly as freshly whetted blades" (13)?

4. Where do Val, Joan, and Martina meet after work?

5. What evidence does Jimmy provide that Tug has a psychiatric disorder?

(see the answer key)

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