Through the Tunnel

Identify four places in the story where figurative language reflects something about how Jerry experiences the world, then choose two of these instances and explore their significance in depth. What does the language say about his character, and how does it contribute to the story’s themes?

Why does the geographical setting go unnamed? What might change about the story if readers knew exactly where it was taking place?

The two beaches contrast, but so do water and land. How does the narrative atmosphere underwater compare to that on land? How does this factor into Jerry’s coming of age?

Which is more important for Jerry’s coming of age—his preparation for the tunnel, or actually swimming through the tunnel? Use at least two specific examples from the story as you explain your answer.

How does Jerry’s relationship with his mother change throughout the story, from beginning to end? Use at least three specific examples from the story to illustrate your points.

Identify at least three ways in which the author crafts suspense or anticipation building up to Jerry’s climactic journey through the tunnel. What creates the tunnel feat’s emotional payoff?

Why doesn’t Jerry care about the local boys by the end of the story? What changed his mind about desperately wanting to be with them to not caring about them at all?

How would this story’s themes be different if Jerry were not successful?