These fruits were used in this story to symbolize the relationship between Doctor Reefy and the tall, dark girl. These fruits also represent Doctor Reefy's appearance.
What are apples?
100
This word means something or someone that one vehemently dislikes.
What is an anathema?
100
Doctor Reefy experiences this as he is left in this state of being alone, with only the comfort of his own mind.
What is solitude?
100
This old doctor lives alone after the passing of his young wife.
Who is Doctor Reefy?
100
Doctor Reefy crumpled his scraps of paper into this shape.
What are small spheres?
200
This character is considered to be the grotesque in this story as he is consumed with the task of constantly writing on scraps of paper.
Who is Doctor Reefy?
200
This word means (esp. of a comment or style of speaking) sharp and forthright, tasting sour or bitter.
What is "acerbic"?
200
This concept is shown in “Paper Pills” after Doctor Reefy loses his wife.
What is lost love?
200
This man, a farmer, is said to be Doctor Reefy's only friend.
Who is John Spainard?
200
These were scribbled on Doctor Reefy's scraps of paper.
What are the ends of thoughts and beginnings of ideas?
300
The reader may feel this emotion after reading of the loss that Doctor Reefy has faced.
What is sadness?
300
This word means abrupt or offhand in speech or manner.
What is "brusque"?
300
This occurs twice in “Paper Pills” as both the tall dark girl and her baby die.
What is tragic death?
300
Doctor Reefy lost this person after she passed away.
Who is the tall, dark girl/Doctor Reefy's wife?
300
This is the major word that summarizes the theme of "Paper Pills."
What is loss?
400
These "things" formed out of Doctor Reefy's mind, but they eventually fell away to form more.
What are truths?
400
This word means showing great care and perseverance.
What is "assiduous"?
400
This occurs when both the tall dark girl and her baby die at very young ages. This phrase can mean an early death, or an unexpected separation from loved ones.
What is premature loss?
400
This young man was the young girl's suitor, he was skinny and tall, and he talked continuously of virginity.
Who was the jeweler's son?
400
Where did Doctor Reefy and the tall, dark girl meet?