Question

name
contents of a deadmans pocket quiz
directions: choose the correct answer for each question.

1. what is the main conflict in \contents of the dead mans pocket\?

a. the protagonist struggles to decide whether to stay home or go out.
b. the protagonist tries to retrieve an important paper stuck outside his apartment window.
c. the protagonist argues with his wife about spending too much time at work.
d. the protagonist loses his job and searches for a new one.

1. what does the paper slipping out the window symbolize in the story?

a. the protagonists desire for adventure.
b. the fragile balance between work and personal life.
c. the importance of money over family.
d. the protagonists fear of heights.

1. how does tom benecke change during the story?

a. he becomes more reckless and impulsive.
b. he realizes the value of his relationship over his work.
c. he decides to quit his job immediately.
d. he plans to move to a new city.

1. what is the storys tone as tom climbs out onto the ledge?

a. calm and relaxed.
b. tense and suspenseful.
c. joyful and lighthearted.
d. confused and humorous.

1. what lesson does tom learn by the end of the story?

a. success at work is more important than anything else.
b. taking risks is always worthwhile.
c. personal relationships and safety matter more than ambition.
d. climbing buildings is a good way to solve problems

1. which statement best expresses the main theme in the story?

a. ones core values are often developed early on in life.
b. time is limited and should be spent on what one values most.
c. it is necessary to make sacrifices if one is to advance their career.
d. one should not take major risks without a strong support system.

1. what does the exchange between tom and clare in paragraphs 3 - 8 reveal about their different points of view?

a. clare thinks tom works too much, while tom thinks he needs to work more.
b. clare thinks she works too much, while tom thinks she needs to work more.
c. clare thinks tom cares too much about money, while tom thinks she doesnt care enough.
d. clare thinks tom spends too much time at the office, while he thinks she spends too much time at the theater.

Explanation:

1. In the story, the protagonist risks his life to retrieve an important work - related paper stuck outside his apartment window, which is the main conflict.
2. The paper slipping out the window symbolizes the fragile balance between the protagonist's work and personal life as he has been overly focused on work.
3. Tom realizes the value of his relationship with his wife over his work after his near - death experience trying to get the paper.
4. When Tom climbs out onto the ledge, the situation is dangerous, creating a tense and suspenseful tone.
5. By the end of the story, Tom learns that personal relationships and safety are more important than his work - related ambition.
6. The story emphasizes that time is limited and should be spent on what one values most, highlighting the work - life balance issue.
7. The exchange shows that Clare thinks Tom spends too much time at the office while Tom is more work - oriented.

Answer:

1. B. The protagonist tries to retrieve an important paper stuck outside his apartment window.
2. B. The fragile balance between work and personal life.
3. B. He realizes the value of his relationship over his work.
4. B. Tense and suspenseful.
5. C. Personal relationships and safety matter more than ambition.
6. B. Time is limited and should be spent on what one values most.
7. A. Clare thinks Tom works too much, while Tom thinks he needs to work more.