Character Motivation
What motivates Sergei to engage with Yoni in "What of This Goldfish Would You Wish?" despite his initial reluctance?
Sergei is motivated by a deep sense of loneliness and the desire for connection. Initially hesitant to engage, he ultimately feels compelled to confront the intruder because the encounter represents a chance to break free from his isolation. His longing for companionship and understanding drives him to open up about his wishes and regrets, highlighting his internal struggle between safety and the need for human interaction. This moment becomes a catalyst for Sergei's character development, as he starts to reflect on his own desires and the potential for meaningful relationships.
What theme is explored through Sergei's relationship with the goldfish in "What of This Goldfish Would You Wish?"
A prominent theme explored through Sergei's relationship with the goldfish is the nature of desire and the impact of unfulfilled wishes. The goldfish symbolizes Sergei's own dreams and aspirations, as it has the ability to grant wishes.
How does Sergei’s cultural background affect his views on friendship and connection in "What of This Goldfish Would You Wish?"
Coming from a Russian-Jewish heritage, he carries a sense of history and longing for community. This makes him value relationships deeply, but also makes him cautious and hesitant to reach out. His background helps explain why he struggles with feelings of isolation while still yearning for meaningful connections with others.
What does the word "longing" mean in the context of Sergei’s feelings towards his wishes?
"Longing" refers to a strong, persistent desire or yearning for something, highlighting Sergei's deep wish for connection and fulfillment in his life.
What purpose does the author have in using the goldfish as a central symbol in the story?
he author uses the goldfish as a symbol of unfulfilled wishes and the complexity of desire, highlighting how people's hopes can reflect their deepest longings for connection and meaning
What is Yonatan’s primary motivation for creating the documentary?
To create footage that can be used as social commentary
What is the tone of this text?
The tone of the story is a blend of somber and whimsical
What can the reader infer about Yoni’s cultural background based on paragraph 6 of the story?
He has had a sheltered, suburban childhood.
What does the word foreseeable mean as used in paragraph 5?
Anticipated
How does the author’s portrayal of Sergei's loneliness serve the overall message of the story? (How does it relate to the theme)
the author emphasizes the theme of isolation in modern life, illustrating how people can feel disconnected even in a crowded world, and prompting readers to reflect on the importance of relationships.
What do Sergei’s wishes tell readers about him?
He acts impulsively instead of thinking things through.
Which quotation from the story best supports a theme that loneliness can have a strong negative effect on people?
A). . . a testament to the massive rift between our dreams and the often compromised reality in which we live. (paragraph 2)
B)Anything, the Russian said, not to be alone. (paragraph 42)
B)Anything, the Russian said, not to be alone. (paragraph 42)
How does the theme of memory play a role in Sergei's character development in "What of This Goldfish Would You Wish?"
he reflects on past experiences and lost opportunities, these memories evoke a sense of nostalgia and regret, highlighting the weight of what he has endured. His recollections of happier times and significant relationships underscore his profound loneliness and desire for connection.
How does the term "mundane" describe Sergei's daily life?
"Mundane" means lacking interest or excitement; it describes Sergei's routine as ordinary and unremarkable, emphasizing his feelings of boredom and isolation.
What is the author’s purpose in creating the tension between safety and risk in Sergei’s character?
The author creates this tension to show how fear of vulnerability can prevent individuals from seeking connection. It highlights the struggle many face in balancing their desire for safety with their longing for meaningful relationships.
What does the characterization of Sergei reveal that he values?
Reliable companionship
Which quotation from the story best supports a theme of there being good in the world?
A.) That first wish, Sergei used up when they discovered a cancer in his sister. A lung cancer, the kind you don’t get better from. The fish undid it in an instant—the words barely out of Sergei’s mouth. (paragraph 29)
B.)In his mind, he was less sure, and all kinds of thoughts about other things he could have done with that wish continued to gnaw at him, half driving him mad. The third wish, Sergei hadn’t yet wished for. (paragraph 29)
That first wish, Sergei used up when they discovered a cancer in his sister. A lung cancer, the kind you don’t get better from. The fish undid it in an instant—the words barely out of Sergei’s mouth. (paragraph 29)
Based on the description of Sergei’s past, readers can conclude that
his experiences in Russia made him fearful and paranoid
What does "contemplate" suggest about Sergei's thought process regarding his wishes?
"Contemplate" means to think deeply or consider carefully. It suggests that Sergei is actively reflecting on his desires and the implications of what he truly wishes for.
How does the author’s use of humor impact the story’s exploration of serious themes?
The author uses humor to lighten the mood while addressing serious themes like loneliness and regret. This approach makes the story more relatable and accessible, allowing readers to engage with the deeper emotional issues in a nuanced way.
How does Sergei’s character develop as the plot unfolds?
Sergei's character embodies a mix of hope and resignation, suggesting that while he may never fully escape his loneliness, he begins to understand the value of reaching out and making choices that reflect his true self.
Which two quotations from the selection have an informal tone?
A)Even better, maybe he’d cash out, package it with a slogan and sell it to a bank or cellular phone company. (paragraph 4)
B)Yonatan could hardly imagine what people were dreaming of in the development towns and the collectives along the northern border, in the West Bank settlements and Arab villages, the immigrant absorption centers full of broken trailers and tired people left to broil out in the desert sun. (paragraph 6)
C)Just a goldfish, Sergei tells him, just something he found flapping around in the net, a deep-sea goldfish. (paragraph 13)
D)That first wish, Sergei used up when they discovered a cancer in his sister. (paragraph 29)
Sergei takes a deep breath. He steps out into the middle of the kitchen, out into the puddle. (paragraph 38)
A & C
How does Sergei’s cultural background contribute to his character development?
His Russian-Jewish heritage influences his worldview, particularly in terms of themes of longing, nostalgia, and survival.
Throughout the story, Sergei’s experiences are colored by a sense of displacement and loss, reflecting broader historical narratives of his culture. This background fosters a deep sense of isolation, as he navigates a modern world that feels disconnected from his roots. His interactions often reveal a longing for connection, both to his heritage and to others, highlighting the emotional weight of his past.
In the story, what does "absurd" imply about the situations Sergei finds himself in?
"Absurd" implies that the situations are illogical or ridiculous, highlighting the surreal and often humorous aspects of Sergei's encounters, particularly with the goldfish and the intruder.
The author’s main reason for including the information in paragraph 7 is to show that
Yoni has goals that extend beyond making money and becoming famous