How does Steinbeck usethelocation, and specificallytheweather, to heightenthemood ofthestory?

2. Describe Elisa as a character. What kind of person is she?

3. We see Elisa talk to Henry atthebeginning and again attheend ofthestory. What kind of relationship does she have with Henry? What is his view of her? Why is he so confused when she protests at being called "strong"?

4. In what ways isthetinker a contrast to Elisa? What might he represent for her? Is he sincere, or is he just a con man? Arethere any ways in whichthey are alike? (Note: Studytheir conversation carefully for clues.)

5. What dothechrysanthemumssymbolize in this story? Would you say thatthey are a universal symbol or a contextual symbol? What dothey mean to Elisa? Arethere other symbolic elements?