"Contents of the Dead Man's Pocket" Quiz

What seems to be Tom's main priority, at the opening of the story?

Tom's relationship with his wife seems to be...

• rocky

• loving

• cold

• violent

Twice, Tom imagines himself inside the apartment. What are two things he imagines himself doing?

Twice, Tom imagines himself inside the apartment. How does he feel the first time vs. the second time?

• At first it makes him feel hopeful, but the second time it makes him feel anxious.

• At first it makes him feel more panicked, but the second time it fills him with warmth.

• At first it makes him feel confident in his abilities, but the second time it makes him doubt himself.

• At first it makes him angry, but the second time it just makes him sad.

What does Tom try not to do when he's making his way across the ledge?

• think about what he's doing

• move too quickly

• lose his glasses

• look down

When Tom is out on the building's ledge, his conflicts are...

• internal

• external

• both

Which THREE things did Tom do to try and get the attention of people in other buildings or down on the sidewalk?

• wave his arms

• yell

• drop papers from his pockets

• light papers on fire

• drop coins from his pocket

How does the artist's use of color, line, and shape, relate to Tom's feelings and experience out on the ledge? Be specific.

How does DeMille (the author) create and develop the primary mood of the story? Use at least two specific examples from the text.

What is the predominant mood of the story?

• suspense

• nostalgia

• hope

• righteous anger