"Magic Barrel" plot/theme/point of view questions
1. The first paragraph introduces Leo Finkle--what is his profession and why is he calling on Pyne Salzman? Describe Salzman.
2. Determine the story's point of view.
3. Why does Finkle reject Sophi P.? Lily H.? Ruth K.?
4. What is Finkle's state of mind after he dismissed Salzman?
5. Why does Salzman return? Describe his conversation with Finkle.
6. How did Finkle's date with Hirschorn go?
7. What is the realization Finkle gradually comes to? What other things does he begin to realize?
8. Describe the worst week of Finkle's life. What does he resolve to do?
9. Salzman returns and identifies his own weakness--what it is that makes him a poor man. What is it?
10. What does Salzman leave with Finkle? How does Finkle respond to it?
11. Why does Finkle "let out a cry"? Take careful notice of how Malamud describes the features of the woman in the picture. What is Finkle's reaction? Enumerate Finkle's frustration in trying to track Salzman.
12. Why doesn't Salzman want to tell Finkle who the picture is of?
13. After hiding himself under the covers, what does Finkle decide to do?
14. Describe the meeting between Finkle and Stella. Do you think Salzman planned it? Why is he around a corner chanting prayers for the dead?