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

Short Answer Questions

1. Which of the following literary techniques does the author use in comparing Mel's profession with the topic of conversation?

2. Which of the following is a form of entertainment for the characters?

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

4. According to the author, what characteristics are typically granted to the heart?

5. When the author uses the term 'universal', to what is he referring?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Connotation and denotation help a reader understand the meaning of a particular word or concept. Define both connotation and denotation. Identify a word used by Carver in this story and define its denotation and possible connotations. In this specific story, how does the connotation of terms contribute to the reader's understanding of the work?

Essay Topic 2

Distinguish between tone and mood as used in literature, and then compare and contrast the tone and mood of Carver's story.

Essay Topic 3

Mel's story of the old couple plays a pivotal role in this story.

Part 1) What is so significant about the story? How does it apply to the overall theme?

Part 2) What is important about Mel recounting this particular story? Why is he depressed at the end of the story?

Part 3) Why does Mel's story have such an impact on the rest of the characters in Carver's story?

(see the answer keys)

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