On the Rainy River
Why didn't Tim Want to go to the war?
He didn't want to die and thought he was two smart to go.
Why did Jensen break Strunks nose?
Jensen believed Strunk had stolen his knife.
How does war change their definition of friendship?
It brought them closer
What does Elroy Berdahl represent in Tim’s life?
A silent, nonjudgmental witness.
What does Strunk’s leg injury symbolize?
the brutality of war.
Why did Tim stop at the Tip Top lodge?
Because he was fleeing his hometown to avoid the draft.
What role does tension play in this chapter?
It acts as a force that displays distrust between soldiers.
Why do they agree to kill the other if badly injured?
To create a form of mercy so that they don't suffer.
What did Jensen fear Strunk would do?
Get back at him.
Why is the chapter titled “Friends”?
Because after the conflicts they grow closer to one another.
Why was Tim more afraid of shame than war?
Because he was a coward>
Why is the conflict ironic?
They should be on the same side in the war.
What does their pact reveal about fear?
They are afraid to die and don't want to suffer>
How does fear affect Jensen after the fight?
Jensen is paranoid he will do something.
What does Jensen’s broken nose symbolize?
Paranoia, madness, and intense fear that the Vietnam War instilled in the soldiers.
How does society influence personal choices and how does it relate to the book?
society influences personal choices primarily through the pressure of conformity, social obligations, and the fear of shame.
What does Jensen learn about the conflict?
War causes paranoia and can make people crazy.
Why does Strunk beg Jensen not to kill him?
When faced with the reality of death, he would rather live crippled than die.
What happens when Strunk loses his leg?
He does not want to fulfill the pact and later dies.
What does Canada symbolize for Tim?
Freedom and an escape.
How does Elroy understand Tim without words?
Elroy Berdahl understands Tim without words through a combination of silent observation, non-judgmental presence, and intuitive empathy.
What does Jensen’s behavior reveal about guilt?
It can eat away at you and cause you to do abnormal things.
How do fear and loyalty conflict here?
forcing soldiers to choose between personal survival and the "blood fraternity" of the platoon.
How does Jensen react to Strunk’s request?
He is relieved that he does not have to kill his friend.
What does the Rainy River symbolize?
The physical and moral boundary between two drastically different futures.