Reading Check and Short Answer questions on key plot points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Reading Check

1. Where does Tom’s wife, Clare, go for the evening?

2. In what field does Tom work?

3. Where is the story set?

4. What flies out the window that Tom pursues?

5. What does Tom yell when he punches the window?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. How does the story get its title?

2. What project has Tom been working on for months?

3. Why is this project so important to Tom?

4. What does Tom do to try and attract attention while out on the ledge?

5. What epiphany does Tom have while out on the ledge?

Recommended Next Reads 

“The Train From Rhodesia” by Nadine Gordimer

• This short story tells of a man determined to purchase a carved lion for his wife. This story also addresses the theme of The Consequences of Unbridled Ambition and critically examines capitalism.
• “The Train From Rhodesia” on SuperSummary

“Deer in the Works” by Kurt Vonnegut

• This short story tells of a man who is hired by a large, bureaucratic corporation but quickly becomes disillusioned with his work and future at the company.