"The Killers" Story Analysis
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason Max and Al give George for why they are going to kill Ole Anderson?

  • Because Ole Anderson has wronged them in the past.
  • Because they were hired to kill him as a favor to a friend. (correct)
  • Because Ole Anderson insulted their cooking.
  • Because Ole Anderson is a Swede.

How does Al ensure he can still communicate with Max and George while being in the kitchen?

  • By using a complex system of mirrors.
  • By shouting loudly.
  • By propping open the slit that dishes passed through with a catsup bottle. (correct)
  • By using a walkie-talkie.

What does Max suggest George should do more of to entertain himself?

  • Play cards.
  • Read books.
  • Go to the movies. (correct)
  • Listen to the radio.

What does Al imply about the cook and 'bright boy' in the kitchen?

<p>They are being held captive. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What instruction does George receive regarding customers who might enter the diner?

<p>Tell them the cook is off and offer to cook himself if they persist. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What time does George note it is, shortly before someone enters the diner?

<p>A quarter past six. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who enters the diner at the end of the passage?

<p>A streetcar motorman. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Max say regarding what will happen to George after Ole Anderson is killed?

<p>It is uncertain what will happen to George. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of Max's repeated belittling remarks towards George and Nick?

<p>To establish dominance and control over the situation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why do Al and Max insist that Nick move to the other side of the counter?

<p>They want to isolate and control the people present. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely reason the author mentions that Henry's had been made over from a saloon into a lunch counter?

<p>To subtly hint at a past history of violence or crime. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When Al asks George, "What are you going to do to him?" regarding the cook, what is Al implying?

<p>That George is powerless to protect the cook from them. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Al and Max eating with their gloves on?

<p>It emphasizes their detachment from and disregard for social norms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivates George's hesitant and cautious responses to Al and Max's demands?

<p>He fears potential violence and wants to protect himself and others. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason Sam, the cook, is so insistent that Nick stay out of the situation?

<p>Sam is worried that getting involved could put Nick in danger, and he feels responsible for Nick's safety. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Al tell George to "use your head, bright boy" when questioning what they would do to a cook?

<p>To intimidate George through sarcasm . (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When Nick tells Ole Anderson the reason for his visit, the narrative states, 'It sounded silly when he said it.' Why does Nick likely feel this way?

<p>Nick perceives Ole Anderson's reaction as dismissive, making the situation seem less serious. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred from Max looking in the mirror rather than directly at George?

<p>Max is avoiding direct confrontation while still observing George. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Ole Anderson's reaction to Nick's warning can best be described as:

<p>Indifferent and resigned to his fate. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely reason Ole Anderson refuses to hear the description of the men who threatened him?

<p>He has accepted his impending death and believes knowing their identities is irrelevant. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The setting of the story contributes to the overall mood. Which element of the setting MOST enhances the story's atmosphere of tension and unease?

<p>The arc-light shining through the bare branches of a tree outside. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the detail that Ole Anderson was a heavyweight prizefighter add to the story?

<p>It highlights the irony of his current vulnerable and passive state. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Throughout the story, the characters' dialogue is concise and somewhat detached. What effect does this style of dialogue likely have on the reader?

<p>It amplifies the underlying tension and sense of impending doom. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about Ole Anderson's state of mind, based on his actions?

<p>He has accepted his impending death. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the opening dialogue between the two men and George in 'The Killers'?

<p>To create a sense of unease and foreshadow impending danger. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The dialogue between Al and Max suggests what about their relationship?

<p>They are partners with a clear division of roles. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the detail about the clock being twenty minutes fast contribute to the story's atmosphere?

<p>It symbolizes the disruption of normal time and order. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Al and Max ordering food that is not yet available?

<p>It highlights their desire to inconvenience and control George. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick's presence in the lunchroom primarily contribute to the scene?

<p>He functions as an objective observer of the unfolding events. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the symbolic meaning of Al and Max being dressed alike?

<p>They represent a unified and menacing force. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Al repeatedly call George and Nick 'bright boys'?

<p>He is using sarcasm to mock and intimidate them. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the setting of the story - a small-town lunchroom - contribute to the overall impact?

<p>It provides a sense of normalcy that is disrupted by the intrusion of violence. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Ole Anderson's primary concern that prevents him from leaving his room?

<p>He is struggling to mentally prepare himself to face the threat outside. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Ole Anderson mean when he says, 'I got in wrong'?

<p>He became involved in a bad situation or made a mistake that has put him in danger. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Ole Anderson's past as a boxer?

<p>It highlights a past where he faced physical threats, contrasting with his current helplessness. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Nick go to see George after visiting Ole Anderson?

<p>To inform George about Ole's condition and the impending danger. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary atmosphere or mood conveyed in the story?

<p>Fear and resignation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivates Nick to visit Ole Anderson?

<p>He feels a sense of concern and responsibility for Ole's well-being. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the cook's reaction to the conversation about Ole Anderson suggest?

<p>He is indifferent to Ole Anderson's plight and does not want to be bothered. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Ole Anderson refuse Nick's suggestion to go to the police?

<p>He believes involving the police would be futile and worsen the situation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Max initially compliment George, referring to him as 'bright boy' and a 'regular little gentleman'?

<p>Because George remains calm and compliant despite the unsettling situation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What evidence suggests that the arrival of Max and Al significantly disrupts the normal operation of the lunchroom?

<p>Nick and the cook are gagged and held captive in the kitchen. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivates Max and Al to eventually leave the lunchroom?

<p>They realize that Ole Anderson has been warned and will not be coming to the lunchroom. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Al expresses dissatisfaction with how the situation at the lunchroom was handled. What is the primary reason for his discontent?

<p>Max talked too much, potentially drawing unnecessary attention. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred from Al's statement, 'You got a lot of luck,' to George before leaving?

<p>Al believes George is fortunate to have survived their encounter unharmed. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the author use the description of Max and Al's appearance as they leave the lunchroom to contribute to the story's tone?

<p>To create a sense of dark humor and absurdity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does the customer who enters the lunchroom while Max and Al are waiting become frustrated?

<p>The customer is informed that the cook is sick and there is no alternative. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely reason that George cooks the sandwich for the customer, despite the tense situation in the kitchen?

<p>George wants to maintain a sense of normalcy and avoid suspicion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Setting of the story

The setting is Henry's lunchroom in Summit, where the story begins.

Initial characters

Two men, Al and Max, enter the lunchroom behaving suspiciously.

Unusual order

The customers ask for dinner items not available at the time.

George's role

George is a worker at the lunchroom.

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Nick's presence

Nick Adams is a customer at the lunchroom

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Appearance of Al and Max

The men are dressed alike, with tight overcoats and derby hats

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Al's Question

Al asks about what people do in the town at night.

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Insulting the staff

The men call George and Nick 'bright boys' sarcastically.

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Wicket

A small opening or passage, often with a door or gate.

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Leaned Forward

To lean forward, often to listen more closely or show interest.

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Bright Boy

An informal term for someone perceived as intelligent though sometimes used sarcastically. They are also referred to as brainy.

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Saloon

Another word for saloon, a place where alcoholic beverages are served.

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Argue

To disagree or present reasons against something.

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Counter

A horizontal supporting structure.

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Apron

A cloth apron worn to keep clothes clean during cooking.

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Expressionless

Showing no emotion.

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The Hit

Max and Al plan to kill Ole Anderson at the diner.

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Ole Anderson

Ole Anderson is the target of the planned murder.

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Motive

The men are doing this 'for a friend'.

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Al's Location

Al is in the kitchen, controlling the situation from afar.

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Motorman Arrival

The streetcar motorman enters, oblivious to the situation.

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Time of Day

The events take place around six o'clock.

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Disquiet

A feeling of discomfort, anxiety, or unease arising from a situation.

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Swagger

To walk with an exaggerated air of confidence or arrogance.

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Stay out of it

To refuse to become involved or associated with something.

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Bare Branches

Bare; without leaves.

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Arc-light

Dull or tending to be ignored.

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Corridor

A long narrow passage inside a building.

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Heavyweight prizefighter

A boxer in one of the higher weight divisions.

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Silly

Seeming foolish or unreasonable.

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George

A lunchroom employee, nicknamed 'bright boy' by Max.

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Max

One of the two strange men, partners with Al.

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Al

The other of the two strange man, partners with Max, holds a shotgun.

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Nick

Another lunchroom employee who is tied up in the kitchen

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The Cook

Restrained man in the kitchen.

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Shotgun

A weapon, sawed-off and concealed, used for intimidation.

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Tension

Feeling of unease/foreboding without knowing why.

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Sloppy

Unsettling feeling that the situation is messy.

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Ole Anderson's Resignation

Ole Anderson is resigned to his fate and refuses to leave his room, anticipating being killed.

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Nick's Failed Assistance

Nick attempts to help Ole Anderson, but Anderson believes there is nothing that can be done to change the situation.

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Past Involvement

Ole Anderson is trapped because of a past involvement or mistake in Chicago.

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Mrs.Bell's concern

Mrs. Bell cares for Mr. Anderson.

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Nick and George's Helplessness

Nick and George are worried and feel helpless about Ole Anderson’s impending doom.

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Confronting Fate

Ole Anderson acknowledges that he is 'in wrong' and expects to confront the situation eventually.

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News from Nick

Nick relays to George that Ole is aware of the danger but unwilling to take action.

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Past Catching Up

Ole reflects on the past and gives up running.

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Study Notes

  • The story begins at Henry's lunchroom, where two men enter and sit at the counter.
  • George, a worker at the lunchroom, asks the men what they want to order.
  • The men, Al and his friend Max, are dressed in overcoats that are too tight.
  • Al orders ham and eggs, and the other man orders bacon and eggs.
  • Nick Adams observes the two men from the end of the counter, and had been talking to George before they came in.

Interactions and Rising Tension

  • Al inquires about drinks, and George lists "Silver beer, bevo, ginger-ale."
  • The men discuss the town, Summit, and what people do at night, with George stating they "eat the big dinner."
  • Al asks Nick his name and refers to him as "another bright boy," a phrase that is repeated.
  • George serves the ham and eggs and bacon and eggs where the two customers ate with gloves on.
  • Max asks Nick to go around to the other side of the counter and then instructs George to have the cook come out from the kitchen.

Hostage Situation

  • Al and Max force Sam, the cook, and Nick into the kitchen.
  • Max sits at the counter, watching George in the mirror.
  • The men plan to kill a Swede named Ole Anderson who eats there every night at six o'clock.
  • Al is in the kitchen with Sam and Nick, with a catsup bottle propped up from the kitchen.
  • George is told that if anyone comes in, he is to say the cook is off.
  • The clock reads a quarter past six, and a streetcar motorman comes in for supper.
  • The motorman leaves, because George informs him that Sam is out and will return in half an hour.
  • Max notes at 6:55 that Ole Anderson is not coming.

Departure and Aftermath

  • Al states bright boy is nice and the cook and bright boy are tied up like girlfriends.
  • George cooks a sandwich for a customer, and sees Al with a sawed-off shotgun in the kitchen.
  • At seven o'clock and five minutes past, the men prepare to leave
  • At 7:10 the men leave the lunchroom after determining Ole Anderson is not coming.
  • George unties Nick and Sam.
  • George tells Nick that the men were planning to kill Ole Anderson when he came in to eat.

Nick's Warning to Ole Anderson

  • George advises Nick to go see Ole Anderson to warn him.
  • Sam tells Nick to stay out of it.
  • Nick finds Ole Anderson at Hirsch's rooming-house, where he is lying on the bed fully clothed.
  • Nick tells Ole Anderson about the two men who tied him and the cook up and said they were going to kill him.
  • Ole Anderson says there isn't anything he can do about it.
  • Ole Anderson says that he just can't make up his mind to go out, and that he is through with running around.
  • Nick returns to Henry's eating-house.

Conversation and Reflection

  • Nick reports that Ole Anderson is in his room and won't go out.
  • Regarding Ole, George says: "They'll kill him,"
  • Nick concludes: "It's an awful thing."
  • Nick says he will leave town, because he "can't stand to think about him waiting in the room and knowing he's going to get it."
  • George advises Nick to not think about it.

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Analysis of "The Killers" by Ernest Hemingway, focusing on the initial encounter at Henry's lunchroom, the dialogue between the characters, and the rising tension as Al and Max reveal their intentions. The story introduces Nick Adams as an observer to the unfolding events.

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