"A Temporary Matter" Answers and Explanations

Multiple Choice Answers and Explanations

“A Temporary Matter” by Jhumpa Lahiri

1.      E

It is not A because the passage does not directly say anything about love; just their manner around each other. It is not B because there is no indication of whether or not they had an arranged marriage or not. It is no C or D because it doesn’t say either of those in the passage. In this passage it is important not to inference. Shukumar also says he doesn’t want her to be pregnant again because he doesn’t want to pretend to be happy.

2.      C

It’s not I because although the audience thinks their getting closer, Shoba actually has bad news for their relationship. III is not the answer because although they have an uncertain future, Shukumar is not preparing, although Shoba might be. It is II because, good or bad, they are beginning a new type of relationship.

3.      D

It is not A because it means insensitive and scornful, which neither are. It is not B because although it is quiet, it is not calm. It may be reflective, but the first part doesn’t fit. It is not C because hubristic means overly prideful, and neither of them are prideful. It is not E because that choice means contemptuous and rude, which neither of them are. D is right because lugubrious means mournful and they are essentially on their own, even in the presence of each other.

4.      B

It could be A because Shoba is hiding her news form Shukumar, but it is not the best answer. It is not C because Shoba is not trying to be deceitful; she is just waiting for the right time to tell her husband. It is not D because their truths are not non-binding. If anything it bonded them closer together. It is not E because their talks in the dark were never started before the incident. It is B because it lets them tell the truth after being silent for a long time.

5.      E

It is not I because Shukumar specifically says he didn’t tell her because he loved her. It is II and III because even though the memory is painful, it is her truth to know also. III because he held that burden for a long time from her. She didn’t have to feel the pain and he wanted to share his sorrow.