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Q1. The author makes a parallel reference to The Tale of Two Cities to emphasize the extreme dichotomy between the two worlds that Junior, the protagonist, inhabits—his impoverished life on the reservation and the comparatively affluent life in Reardan. This literary allusion underscores the stark socio-economic and cultural contrast faced by Junior.
Q2. Junior was scared of the R.e.a.r.d.a.n kids because of the cultural and racial differences. First, he feared being ostracized and ridiculed due to his Native American background. Second, he was apprehensive about their potential hostility and prejudice, anticipating discrimination and challenges in fitting into their predominantly white environment.
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Q3. Rowdy was concerned that Junior's move to R.e.a.r.d.a.n would make him lose his sense of humor or carefree nature. Rowdy believed that the serious and challenging environment at R.e.a.r.d.a.n might change Junior's personality, and he didn't want his friend to lose the light-heartedness that defined their friendship.
Q4. This statement suggests that Junior is very serious about his decision or statement. The comparison to a tumor implies that his seriousness is intense, persistent, and potentially disruptive, emphasizing the gravity of Junior's commitment or intention.
Q5. Junior touched R.o.w.d.y's shoulder to express a sense of camaraderie, affection, and perhaps to seek reassurance or comfort. Physical touch often conveys emotions that words alone cannot express, and in this case, it may symbolize Junior's desire to maintain a connection with R.o.w.d.y despite the changes in their lives.
Q6. Rowdy and Junior had been best friends for a significant period, indicating a long-standing and deep connection between them. The exact duration may not be specified in the provided information.
Q7. The sentence suggests that Junior experienced profound emotional pain and sadness. The metaphorical "fourteen pieces" implies that the emotional impact was severe and has shattered his heart into multiple fragments, emphasizing the intensity of his emotional turmoil.
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Q8. When R.o.w.d.y "kept screaming with his eyes," it suggests that R.o.w.d.y was silently expressing intense emotions, possibly fr.u.s.tr.a.t.i.o.n, anger, or a sense of betrayal. The eyes often convey emotions that words fail to articulate, and in this context, it indicates Ro.w.d.y's inner turmoil.
Q9. The repetition of the word "pain" intensifies the emotional impact, emphasizing the depth and purity of the suffering experienced by Rowdy. It serves to u.n.d.e.r.s.c.o.r.e the profound emotional distress he was going through, leaving no room for ambiguity about the nature of his feelings.
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Q10. It is important for Junior to go to school in R.e.a.r.d.a.n because it provides him with an opportunity for a better education and a chance to break away from the cycle of poverty and limited opportunities on the reservation. Going to R.e.a.r.d.a.n opens up new possibilities for personal growth, success, and a broader perspective on life.
Q11. This statement suggests that Junior's friendship with R.o.w.d.y involves a level of c.o.n.f.l.i.c.t or tension, perhaps arising from differences in their personalities or circumstances. The use of the word "i.d.i.o.t" implies self-awareness on Junior's part, acknowledging the challenges within their friendship.
Q12. The simile "My nose bled like a firework" creates a vivid and dramatic image, emphasizing the intensity of the nosebleed. It suggests that the bleeding is not a subtle or ordinary occurrence but rather a burst of blood akin to the explosive and chaotic display of fireworks. This description adds a heightened sense of drama to the scene.
Q13. Junior remained lying on the ground for a while before getting up, possibly to gather his composure, assess the situation, or recover from the physical and emotional impact of the punch. This brief pause allows the reader to understand the significance of the moment and reflects Junior's internal struggle before taking the next step.