Contents of the Dead Man's Pocket

Multiple Choice and Long Answer questions create ideal opportunities for whole-text review, unit exam, or summative assessments.

Multiple Choice

1. Which scenario best shows how Clare feels about her husband’s ambition and focus on his work?

A) She says she doesn’t mind going to the movies alone.

B) She smiles at his boast about making more money.

C) She reminds Tom that he wanted to see the movie.

D) She expresses anger at his choice to stay home and work.

2. "The strength draining like water from his knees and calves" is an example of which type of figurative language? (Paragraph 31)

A) Alliteration

B) Simile

C) Personification

D) Onomatopoeia

3. Why does Tom feel his balance is secure as he moves along the ledge?

A) He learns how to lean toward the building.

B) The ledge is wider than he expected.

C) The light from his apartment shows him the way.

D) He allows himself to think about his actions. 

4. What causes Tom to begin feeling fear?

A) He sees the yellow paper fly away.

B) He slips from the ledge.

C) He hears someone call his name.

D) He looks down at the street below.

5. Which of the following best describe the mood as Tom prepares to break the window with his fist?

A) Horror and fear

B) Stress and uncertainty

C) Determination and focus

D) Courage and joy

6. Which of the following scenarios best shows the theme of The Will to Live?

A) Tom goes to meet his wife at the movies.

B) Tom imagines all the money he’ll make when he turns in his project.

C) Tom yells his wife’s name as he punches through the window.

D) Tom pursues his notes onto the window ledge.

7. "And a violent instantaneous explosion of absolute terror roared through him" (29) is an example of which type of figurative language?

A) Hyperbole

B) Simile

C) Personification

D) Onomatopoeia

8. How does Tom react when the yellow paper flies out the window again?

A) He cries.

B) He yells for his wife.

C) He chases after it again.

D) He laughs and lets it go.

9. Tom’s reaction to the yellow paper flying out the window again is an example of which of the following literary devices?

A) Euphemism

B) Situational irony

C) Verbal irony

D) Imagery

Long Answer

Compose a response of 2-3 sentences, incorporating text details to support your response.

1. What is the significance of Lexington Avenue in the story?