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This test consists of 15 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to the author, what characteristics are typically granted to the heart?
(a) Emotional and romantic.
(b) Cold and unloving.
(c) Understanding and cognition.
(d) Compassion and tenderness.

2. What literary tool is used in the story of the old couple and Mel and Terri's relationship?
(a) Imagery.
(b) Anthropomorphism.
(c) Alliteration.
(d) Parallelism.

3. Which of the characters seems to realize first that Mel's desire to experience real love is not yet fulfilled?
(a) Nick.
(b) Laura.
(c) Terri.
(d) Ed.

4. Did Mel truly love his first wife?
(a) He thought he did but probably didn't.
(b) Yes, they were deeply in love.
(c) Yes, and Mel is still in love with her.
(d) The author does not address this topic.

5. To whom does Mel become abusive?
(a) Laura.
(b) Himself.
(c) Nick.
(d) Terri.

6. How does the author characterize Laura and Terri's relationship?
(a) Based on the fact that they work together.
(b) Very close and sisterly.
(c) Focused on lots of shared interests.
(d) Somewhat distant.

7. How many purposes does the alcohol serve in this story?
(a) None.
(b) Five.
(c) Two.
(d) It is unclear.

8. Why does Terri have this reaction to Mel's story about the old couple?
(a) She is jealous that she cannot evoke the same sense of love from Mel.
(b) She understands how Mel feels.
(c) She is angry at Laura for making Mel cry.
(d) She is afraid their intimate love will not last forever.

9. Which of the following is used as a symbol of lack of inhibition in the story?
(a) Alcohol.
(b) Food.
(c) Cigarettes.
(d) Prescription medication.

10. How are the two couples different from other people in a relationship?
(a) They have a weaker understanding of love.
(b) They are older than the average couple in love.
(c) They have a better understanding of love.
(d) They are no different.

11. Which character becomes increasingly offensive over the course of the story?
(a) Laura.
(b) Marjorie.
(c) Nick.
(d) Mel.

12. Where are the other characters when Mel begins to talk about love?
(a) At the table.
(b) At a restaurant.
(c) The author does not say.
(d) Outdoors.

13. What can be said to be a motif in Carver's story?
(a) Letters.
(b) Heat.
(c) The color red.
(d) Love.

14. How does the author characterize Terri and Mel's relationship?
(a) Egalitarian and loving.
(b) Strong and honest.
(c) Unstable and volatile.
(d) Hostile and rocky.

15. Who ultimately provides the most insight into what love really means?
(a) Terri.
(b) Mel.
(c) Laura.
(d) Nick.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which of the following techniques does the author use in his story?

2. What is the overall mood of the characters by the end of the story?

3. Which of the following describes Laura's attitude toward Mel as the evening progresses?

4. What is Mel unable to do in this story?

5. Other than Mel, which term best describes the characters in the story?

(see the answer keys)

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