Podcast
Questions and Answers
What significant impact did Simon Potter have on Og's life?
What significant impact did Simon Potter have on Og's life?
- He discouraged Og from pursuing his dreams.
- He taught Og how to knit.
- He introduced Og to new friends.
- He helped Og become a better husband and father. (correct)
What were Bette's feelings about Simon Potter after hearing Og's story?
What were Bette's feelings about Simon Potter after hearing Og's story?
- She was indifferent and did not care to know more.
- She felt threatened by Simon's influence.
- She blamed Og for spending time with Simon.
- She was curious and had many questions about him. (correct)
What does Og indicate about Simon's ability to track him down?
What does Og indicate about Simon's ability to track him down?
- Simon used advanced technology to find him.
- Simon has a network of spies.
- Simon relied on mutual acquaintances to reconnect.
- Simon had been following Og's life since his departure. (correct)
How did Bette react to the notion of seeing Simon again?
How did Bette react to the notion of seeing Simon again?
What did Bette say about the mystery surrounding Simon?
What did Bette say about the mystery surrounding Simon?
What is the main concern expressed about Simon in the chapter?
What is the main concern expressed about Simon in the chapter?
What activity does Og undertake after receiving a delivery from UPS?
What activity does Og undertake after receiving a delivery from UPS?
How does Og feel while waiting for Simon at the old pound?
How does Og feel while waiting for Simon at the old pound?
What specific characteristics are mentioned for the blueberry plants ordered by Og?
What specific characteristics are mentioned for the blueberry plants ordered by Og?
What does Og reflect on after planting the blueberry bushes?
What does Og reflect on after planting the blueberry bushes?
What environment contributes to New Hampshire’s lush and green countryside, according to Og's observations?
What environment contributes to New Hampshire’s lush and green countryside, according to Og's observations?
Why did Simon choose not to meet Bette?
Why did Simon choose not to meet Bette?
How did Og feel after his visits to the old pound?
How did Og feel after his visits to the old pound?
What significant event in Og's life did Simon recall accurately?
What significant event in Og's life did Simon recall accurately?
What was Simon's attitude towards Og's skepticism about his abilities?
What was Simon's attitude towards Og's skepticism about his abilities?
Study Notes
The Ragpicker's Return
- Og Mandino, a successful author, reconnects with a mysterious friend, Simon Potter, after fifteen years.
- Simon is described as a "ragpicker," who helps people overcome hardship.
- Simon has been observing Og's life for fifteen years, and claims to be able to provide details about specific events in Og's past.
- Og is surprised at Simon's knowledge and tests him with several events from his past, including:
- Meeting Imelda Marcos in Manila.
- Receiving awards for his writing and public speaking.
- Visiting the Cathedral of Notre Dame.
- Being awarded a scholarship by the University of Success.
- Speaking at the Arizona Biltmore, where he received a proclamation from Governor Rose Mofford declaring "Og Mandino Day" in Arizona.
- Simon correctly recalls each incident, including seemingly insignificant details like the number of candles Og lit in the Notre Dame Cathedral and the type of golf clubs used during his golf match in South Africa.
- Simon is a seemingly supernatural figure capable of observing and recalling specific details about Og's life in great detail.
- This suggests Simon's abilities extend beyond those normally associated with human capabilities.
Simon's Purpose
- Simon explains his choice to keep himself hidden from Og's wife, Bette, to avoid interfering with their relationship and protect her from the potential complications of knowing him.
- He claims to protect Og, ensuring he is informed of any danger threatening him.
- Simon's claims further suggest that he possesses powers beyond those normally associated with humans.
- His ability to recall events and monitor Og's life raise questions about his true nature and purpose.
The Meeting
- Simon, the talk-show host, informs the narrator that the gentleman who read the proclamation was Pat McMahon.
- Simon suggests they meet regularly, possibly every Tuesday at 9:00 AM.
- The narrator agrees, stating any time is convenient as long as they can meet.
- Simon believes they have both rescued and revived those who were lost and defeated.
- Simon compares the narrator's role to books and words of hope and guidance and his own to muscle, patience, and wide shoulders.
- Simon finds it fitting that they are meeting in the "ancient pound," a place built to harbor and protect lost creatures.
- The narrator contemplates revealing his belief that God is playing chess with them, but ultimately decides against it.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Og Mandino's 'The Ragpicker's Return'. Explore key events from Og's life as he reconnects with Simon Potter, a mysterious friend. This quiz challenges your memory and understanding of significant moments and details presented in the story.
