Questions and Answers
What were Raymond's aspirations for his future at the beginning of the story?
Raymond aspired to become a big-time farmer, raise lots of kids, make plenty of money, and be his own man.
How much did Raymond pay for the mule, and what was his expectation for its use?
Raymond paid twenty-five dollars for the mule and hoped it could last at least one season.
What was Raymond's initial feeling about the strip of land he rented?
Raymond initially felt pleased and thought he had gotten a real bargain.
What did Raymond discover about the land after plowing for a few days?
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What was the reaction of Raymond's family when he dumped the lunch bucket's contents on the table?
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Describe the significance of the rock in the story.
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How did Mama react to Raymond's warning about the rock?
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What does Raymond's careful retrieval of the rock imply about his character?
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What object does Raymond find that causes concern for Mama?
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How does Mama react to the possibility of Raymond handling old explosives?
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What does Raymond believe about the bullets and grenades found in the field?
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What changes does Mama make to Raymond's daily routine after finding the grenades?
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How does Raymond feel about plowing in the fields after the discovery of the grenades?
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What does Mama say in response to Raymond's remark about never having to plow through the grenades again?
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What are Raymond's feelings about having to work in the fields after school?
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What unfortunate event occurs to the mule, and how does Raymond react?
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What does Mama suggest to Raymond regarding the mule's work ethic?
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What does Raymond prioritize above all when dealing with the mule's condition?
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Study Notes
Raymond's Aspirations
- Raymond dreams of becoming a successful farmer, raising children, and achieving financial independence.
- He actively searches for a mule and land to initiate his farming journey.
Purchase of Mule and Land
- Finds a used mule for twenty-five dollars from a friend.
- Rents a strip of inexpensive virgin land in an old army camp area.
- The land is positioned on a hill with minimal vegetation, causing Raymond to underestimate plowing difficulties.
Initial Farming Experience
- Raymond experiences enthusiasm, enjoying the plowing work from sunrise to sunset.
- Initially praises Mr. Pickett, the landowner, for providing affordable land.
Discovery of Explosive Objects
- Discovers hand grenades and bullets while plowing, indicative of the land's past as a practice ground.
- Encounters a panic when realizing the danger of explosive devices, particularly concerned for his safety.
Family Reactions
- Mama's concern grows after the discovery; she fears for Raymond's life while plowing.
- Mama ceases preparing lunch for Raymond, insisting he returns home during midday.
Changes in Farming Attitude
- Raymond becomes cautious while plowing, contemplating the risk of explosive encounters.
- As days go by without incident, both Raymond and Mama gradually relax.
Raymond’s Farming Challenges
- Despite his cautiousness, Raymond is under pressure to complete plowing for the season.
- The death of the old mule from overwork casts additional stress on Raymond and the family.
Overview of Family Dynamics
- A familial bond is apparent, as they support and worry for each other during challenging farming seasons.
- Mama insists on proper care for the mule, highlighting tension between necessity and animal welfare in farming practices.
Concerns About Health
- The narrator expresses fear of working in the fields due to potential sunstroke, reflecting the dangers faced by laborers.
- Concerns for health and labor conditions resonate within the family's discussions.
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Description
This quiz explores the aspirations of Raymond as he transitions into the farming lifestyle. Discover his motivations, choices, and the significance of his new ventures in agriculture. Test your understanding of his journey and the challenges he faces.