All the Years of Her Life

Reading Check

1. Sam Carr (Paragraph 1)

2. He asks Alfred to empty his pocket. (Paragraph 3)

3. A compact, a tube of lipstick, and two tubes of toothpaste that he intended to steal from the store (Paragraph 5)

4. Alfred’s mother seems sad and disappointed, but she remains composed and calm. (Paragraphs 19-22)

5. She looks old and tired. (Paragraphs 43-44)

Short Answer

1. Alfred’s mother plays a significant role in resolving the situation by being kind and composed. The text states, “Mrs. Higgins put out her hand and touched Sam Carr’s arm with an understanding gentleness, and speaking as though afraid of disturbing him, she said, ‘If only you would listen to me before doing anything.’” Her calm demeanor defuses the tension and invites Mr. Carr to be equally calm and generous; he finally decides not to call the cops. (Paragraphs 28-33)

2. Throughout the story, Alfred’s perception of his mother evolves as he gains a deeper understanding of her love and concern. He initially expects her to “rush in with her eyes blazing,” but she surprises him by arriving with a smile on her face and a dignified attitude. At home, however, he observes how the evening’s events have exhausted her: “He knew all the years of her life by the way her hand trembled as she raised the cup to her lips.