Passing by Langston Hughes

1. Which is NOT a possible meaning of Hughes’ use of the word passing?

• manipulation of societal norms to excel

• the transitory exchange of a mother and son

• life is happening quickly as he ignores his mother

• the intentional death of a person’s self-identity

Using context clues, the word “mulatto” means –

• the guardian of an African American child

• a person who is of mixed race

• someone professional looking

• a bright-skinned woman

1. Read the following sentence from the text: “… I promised to take my weakness to the movies this evening.” Identify the figurative language.

• hyperbole

• metaphor

• imagery

• symbolism

The main conflict that Hughes is challenging is:

• man vs. man

• man vs. self

• man vs. nature

• man vs. society

The tone of Jack’s letter is:

• remorseful

• affirmative

• cathartic

• sarcastic

In the story, situational irony occurs when:

• Jack admits that he will deny his children their true racial identity.

• Jack justifies the reason behind his choice.

• Jack's mother is in support of her son's decision.

• Jack's wife is amazed by how good African Americans dance.