Questions: “The Lie” by Kurt Vonnegut
Vocabulary: Write the definitions of the following words, and an original sentence
using each, that shows you understand its meaning:

Grandeur

Blather

Abruptly

Inconceivable

Unrepentant

Deter

Bureaucrat

Wretched
Questions on the Story: Answer the following in complete sentences.
1) When Mrs. Remenzel suggests that Eli should have a room with a fireplace,
what does Dr. Remenzel reply?
2) Describe Eli’s behavior in the car on the way to Whitehill.
3) What kind of school is Whitehill? What is the most important factor that says
whether a student is admitted to Whitehill?
4) Why doesn’t Eli tell his parents about the letter of rejection?
5) How does Eli disappoint his parents?
6) How does Dr. Remenzel disappoint Eli?
7) Define “hypocrisy.” How does the word apply to Dr. Remenzel’s relationship
with his son?
Longer Answer: Use a well constructed paragraph to answer one of the following.
8) Which of Eli’s parents care more about his future? Use at least two examples
from the text to explain your answer.
9) Who do you think feels the most pressure in the story? Use at least two
examples from the story to explain your answer.