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1. Describe Andover, MA as Monette grows up. How does Paul's childhood neighborhood affect his decision to not come out with his sexual orientation?

Andover, MA in the 1950's is a blue-collar town that was modeled after the American dream. This American dream means being normal and the same as everyone else. In general, Andover's mentality followed the mainstream idea the Communists, Italians, and Irish are bad and so are homosexuals. This surrounding is not conducive to Paul's sexual orientation, thus Paul keeps his desires a secret.

2. What are Monette's two childhood memories before age six? In hindsight, what do these memories indicate to Paul Monette as an adult?

Monette recalls two memories prior to age six. One memory is of driving past a cemetery with his father, and Paul asks if his mother is there. The second is when his mother falls outside the school, and he is embarrassed by the commotion it stirs. In hindsight, Monette feels these two memories display his fatalistic attitude and guilt. Thinking his mother is dead before any indication that she might be shows his fatalism. As an adult, when he learns Jackie fell outside his school while pregnant with Bobby, Paul feels a sense of guilt for his reaction, especially since Bobby is born with Spina bifida.

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