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Ann Beattie, "Janus"

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Reading Questions

Text on p. 280 of the full Ninth Edition and p. 248 of the shorter Ninth Edition.

Reading Questions

1. Many readers find this story difficult to read the first time because it does not have a traditional plot and there are flashbacks into Andrea's past. We primarily see Andrea's present state of mind and emotions as focused on the bowl. Try to reconstruct her story. Did you feel any suspense? Were you surprised by the ending?

2. After your first reading, consider what the bowl seems to show about Andrea. How does it function as a "trick" to make her successful at selling homes? Does it seem to make her happy or sad? As you re-read the story, look carefully at every idea or fact associated with the bowl and at the repeated mention of "tricks."

3. What is Andrea's relationship with her husband like? What is he like? How was her lover different from her husband? Why did she choose to stay in her marriage?

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