Characters and Leaders
Who was the 'ace of aces' leading the formation?
Flight-Lieutenant Pattle
In paragraph 22, what does "the controls were very soggy and the was no response to the rudder" mean?
The plane was difficult to control.
About how many German planes attacked the Hurricanes over Athens?
Around 200
Why does Dahl describe the cockpit in detail?
To help readers visualize his experience.
Define 'converge.'
Come together
How does Dahl describe the Hurricanes?
Small metal cockpit, bullet-proof windscreen, eight immobile guns, difficult to operate.
What descriptive phrase does Dahl use to describe surviving the battle?
"Clawed my way out of the fiery furnace"
What did Dahl run out of before retreating?
Ammunition
What was the purpose of paragraph 23?
To transition from cockpit to Operations Room.
What does 'exhilarating time' suggest?
He felt thrilled despite the danger.
How do the other pilots' experiences compare to Dahl's after the battle?
They were equally shaken and exhausted.
How does descriptive language help the reader connect to Dahl's emotions?
It creates vivid, relatable imagery for the reader to feel as if they are a part of the story.
What likely helped the pilots survive despite being outnumbered?
German planes got in each other’s way.
How does Dahl convey emotional intensity of the battle?
Through vivid imagery, descriptive language, and reactions.
What can we infer from pilots’ shaking hands?
They were shaken but relieved to survive.
Why does the author describe Pattle's leadership as 'one hell of a dance'?
He assumed the others could fly as well as he could.
What sensory images does Dahl use to show the aftermath of the battle?
sweating, shaking hands, cigarette that wouldn't light
What happened to one of Dahl’s fellow pilots mid-battle?
He climbed out of a burning Hurricane and jumped.
Why does Dahl include details about wildflowers and sunshine after landing?
To show his feelings of relief and to contrast the peace with the chaos of battle.
What does 'immobile guns' mean about how Hurricanes were used in battle?
The whole plane had to be aimed, not just the guns.
Why does Dahl not criticize Pattle despite the risks of his leadership?
He respected Pattle's skill and bravery.
Why does Dahl use descriptive language/figurative language in this passage?
To show the emotional intensity and danger behind the battle.
What physical damage did Dahl’s plane sustain?
Riddled with holes, difficult controls, rudder not working.
How does Dahl’s perspective as both narrator and participant shape the story?
It blends factual reporting with personal emotion.
What can we infer about Dahl’s attitude toward survival?
He felt fortunate and grateful to be alive.