"Identities" - Comprehension Quiz

What childhood memory is stirred by the smell of burning leaves?

• Fishing trips with his father

• Reading books by the fireplace

• Car rides with narrow lanes and autumn leaves

• Building snowmen in winter

What does the protagonist find unsettling about the suburban neighborhood?

• The noise of passing cars

• The lack of streetlights

• The perfect symmetry and lack of uniqueness

• The abundance of trees and wildlife

How does the protagonist perceive the young men he encounters?

• As old friends from the past

• As harmless, friendly teenagers

• As watchful, potentially dangerous individuals

• As city tour guides

What does the protagonist notice about the houses in the less affluent neighborhood?

• They are painted bright colors

• They have large, well-kept gardens

• They appear squat and surrounded by dirt

• They are all newly built

Why does the protagonist feel guilty as darkness falls?

• He forgot to buy groceries

• He left no message for his wife

• He missed an important meeting

• He lost his wallet

How does the protagonist plan to explain his situation if accosted?

• He will call the police

• He will pretend to be lost

• He will say he stole the car and ask for a buyer

• He will offer to pay them off

What is the protagonist's reaction upon seeing the police officer?

• He feels intense fear

• He is relieved

• He is amused

• He feels ashamed

What is the protagonist’s final action in the story?

• He runs away from the officer

• He raises his hands in surrender

• He reaches for his wallet

• He calls his wife

What does the protagonist hope his appearance will provide?

• An air of authority

• Immunity from threat

• A sense of style

• A friendly demeanor

What is the protagonist's feeling about the neighborhood he wanders into?

• Nostalgic for childhood

• Overwhelmed by its beauty

• Uneasy due to its untidiness

• Indifferent to its appearance