Short Story Questions

Literature Assignment

Who is the story's main character, Connie or Arnold Friend?

I think the main character of the short story is Connie. From the beginning of the story, her life is the focus, and her choices, especially when Arnold comes on the scene are still what the story revolves around, I believe. We see her desire for something new and different, and how the evolves into this situation with Arnold at the climax of the story.

Who is Arnold Friend? Do you think he is appropriately named? What is the significance of his car? His clothing? His language?

He is a swinger type of guy, who goes around attempting to “smooth talk” girls into relations with him. In short, he’s a con artist. I think his name is appropriate as he attempts to pass himself off as a “friend” to Connie. His car, clothing, and language all enforce his “cool guy” image he is trying to create. Using all of these, he can persuade girls to take a ride with him so he can take advantage of them.

Do a little research about the significance of the numbers 33 19 17. What are some of the ideas that have been suggested about their meaning? What do you think they mean?

There are many ideas floating around about the significance of those numbers. Some claim they are a biblical reference to the Judges 19:17 “And he lifted up his eyes and saw the traveler in the open square of the city; and the old man said, "Where are you going, and where do you come from?" Judges is the 33^rd book in the bible if you count backwards. Some believe they indicate something sexual, while many believe they mean nothing at all. I would have to go with the latter explanation.

Describe important images that you see in the story and what they do to create meaning within the story.

Imagery is very important to the story. The drabness of Connie’s life at home, contrasted by her social life and her adventures with boys, paints a very good picture of escape, and new horizons. Also, the description of Arnold Friend and his car gives a eerie hint to his sinister nature.