"Contents of the Dead Man's Pocket" --- English II CP: Periods % and 5tel 1. Summarize the KEY EVENTS of the PLOT, being careful to identify at least three (3)
CAUSES and EFFECTS. Think: "Because Tom decides to (complete your point)..." what
happens?
2. At one point Tom (and the reader) is shocked to discover that only eight minutes have
passed since he has been out on the ledge. Identify two examples of how Finney (the
author) makes time move more slowly. Use quotes.
3. Explain how Tom experiences both INTERNAL and EXTERNAL conflict, one (1)
example for each.
4. How are the two SETTINGS, the inside of the apartment and the outside ledge,
contrasted? How do you imagine the author wants the reader to feel about both settings?
Explain.
5. Name two ways Finney creates intense suspense for the reader. Hint: "When Tom... it is
suspenseful because..."
6. Based on Tom's actions at the end of the story, what can the reader infer is the story's
THEME, its revelation about life? Explain.