The Garden Party

Page numbers refer to this online edition of “The Garden Party.”

Reading Check

1. Her children (Page 1)

2. A workman sniffed a sprig of lavender. (Page 2)

3. Cream puffs (Page 6)

4. If the man had died in the Sheridans’ garden (Page 7)

5. Her hat (Page 12)

Short Answer

1. Jose sings the song “This Life is Weary” for her family in order to practice. The song’s lyrics touch on sorrow, changing love, and loss, a sharp contrast to the family’s giddy and light mood. (Pages 4-5)

2. Godber’s deliveryman shares the news that a local man died in an accident that morning, leaving a widow and five children. Immediately, Laura is shocked and believes the party should be canceled; however, Jose believes canceling the party would be “extravagant.” (Pages 6-7)

3. While the Sheridans’ property is vast, with a large garden filled with exotic plants and a tennis court, the little cottages are, by contrast, “the greatest possible eyesore,” with “little mean dwellings,” scant gardens, and “poverty-stricken” chimney smoke. (Pages 1-7)

4. Mrs. Sheridan suggests that Laura take a basket of leftover food from the party to the widow and her family. Laura is at first unsure of the suggestion but then eagerly jumps at the opportunity to help.