Final answer:
The question pertains to English literature, focusing on exploring literary elements like plot, theme, conflict, and their connection to deeper discussions about literature's relevance to real-life issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject of the question appears to involve elements of English literature, focusing on the analysis of literary elements such as plot, theme, and conflict, particularly as they relate to a short story or literary excerpt. It doesn't strictly pertain to calculating the required number of pickles for sandwiches, which is simply a humorous way of introducing a concept analogous to stoichiometry from chemistry, used here as a metaphor for exploring a literary text in-depth.
One of the critical concepts is understanding how the theme and purpose of a literary work are shaped by its conflict, as seen in the example involving Mark Twain. Additionally, recognizing the importance of examining the plot before delving into more complex analyses is highlighted as necessary for providing context to one's writing about literature.
The practice section indicates that after understanding these basic elements, one should reflect on more profound questions that connect literature with real life, thus enhancing the reader's engagement with the text and promoting a more nuanced appreciation of its applications.