The Symbolism of the Jacket

In Gary Soto's memoir, the narrator recounts his experiences with an unwanted green jacket. Despite hoping for a cool biker jacket, he receives a large, unattractive one. The jacket becomes a source of embarrassment and ridicule at school, affecting his self-esteem and social life. Over time, the jacket deteriorates, symbolizing the narrator's struggles and growth. The story highlights themes of identity, acceptance, and the impact of material possessions on self-worth.

What does the narrator reflect on at the beginning of the memoir?

• His family vacations

• His favorite hobbies

• His clothing failures

• His academic achievements

What type of jacket did the narrator initially want?

• A yellow raincoat

• A blue denim jacket

• A black leather jacket with silver studs

• A red woolen jacket

How did the narrator feel upon receiving the jacket?

• Indifferent and neutral

• Proud and confident

• Disappointed and upset

• Excited and grateful

What incident occurred with the narrator's dog on the first day with the jacket?

• The dog tore the jacket

• The dog ran away

• The dog barked at a stranger

• The dog chewed the narrator's shoes

How did the narrator's peers react to his new jacket at school?

• They complimented him

• They ignored him

• They laughed at him

• They asked to borrow it

What impact did the jacket have on the narrator's social life over the years?

• It made him more popular

• It improved his friendships

• It isolated him from others

• It had no impact

What changes did the narrator experience as he grew older?

• He moved to a new city

• He lost interest in school

• He developed physically

• He became more introverted

What was the narrator's reaction to his mother's comment about children in Mexico?

• He laughed it off

• He was frustrated and upset

• He was indifferent

• He agreed with her

What does the jacket symbolize for the narrator by the end of the memoir?

• A constant burden

• A source of pride

• A forgotten past

• A cherished memory