Front

What is the primary focus of the narrator in the passage?

Back

The narrator primarily recalls the swim of his life and the factors that motivated him during that swim.

Front

Why does the narrator describe the natatorium as nearly empty of spectators?

Back

To illustrate that the perfect racing conditions the narrator had hoped for weren't likely to occur.

Front

What does the statement 'That's where you're going, now hurry up' imply?

Back

It can most directly be attributed to the narrator, as he speculates about what the cheering boy meant when the boy pointed at the pool.

Front

How does the narrator characterize the time trial in Houston?

Back

As an informal swimming event put together at the last minute.

Front

What realization does the narrator come to during the time trials?

Back

He understands for the first time that the swim was an event that was important to him alone.

Front

What is the significance of the narrator's reflections on his swimming career?

Back

It highlights the personal journey and motivations behind his participation in swimming.

Front

How does the narrator's experience at the time trials differ from his expectations?

Back

He expected perfect racing conditions but found the environment to be less than ideal.

Front

What role does the cheering boy play in the narrator's experience?

Back

The cheering boy serves as a source of motivation and reflection for the narrator.

Front

What does the narrator's struggle during the swim represent?

Back

It represents the internal challenges and pressures faced by competitive athletes.

Front

How does the narrator's understanding of his goals evolve throughout the passage?

Back

He realizes that his goals are always one step farther on, indicating a continuous pursuit of improvement.