"This is like a woman!" shouted Behrman. "Who said I will not come? Go. I come with you. For half an hour I have been trying to say that I will come. God! This is not any place for someone so good as Johnsy to lie sick. Some day I shall paint my masterpiece, and we shall all go away from here. God! Yes."
Johnsy was sleeping when they went up. Sue covered the window, and took Behrman into the other room. There they looked out the window fearfully at the tree. Then they looked at each other for a moment without speaking. A cold rain was falling, with a little snow in it too.
Behrman sat down, and Sue began to paint.
She worked through most of the night.
In the morning, after an hour's sleep, she went to Johnsy's bedside. Johnsy with wide-open eyes was looking toward the window. "I want to see," she told Sue.
Sue took the cover from the window.
Question 1: How does Behrman's reaction to Sue's request demonstrate his concern for Johnsy?
Answer: Behrman's immediate acceptance of Sue's request to accompany her to Johnsy's room shows his concern and care for Johnsy's well-being. He passionately expresses his willingness to come along and expresses his disbelief that someone as good as Johnsy should suffer in such a way.
Question 2: What does Behrman's exclamation about painting his masterpiece suggest about his aspirations and hopes for the future?
Answer: Behrman's exclamation reveals his long-held aspiration to create a significant piece of artwork, his "masterpiece." This statement suggests his hope for a brighter future, wherein he achieves recognition for his talent and can leave the current situation behind.
Question 3: What is the significance of Sue covering the window before painting?
Answer: Sue covering the window before painting indicates her consideration for Johnsy's fragile state. By shielding Johnsy from the sight of the falling leaves, Sue attempts to prevent any negative impact on her friend's mental and emotional state, showing her empathy and care.
Question 4: How does the description of the weather outside contribute to the atmosphere of the scene?
Answer: The description of the cold rain mixed with snow outside adds to the somber and melancholic atmosphere of the scene. It reflects the bleakness of Johnsy's condition and the uncertainty of her future, intensifying the sense of urgency and concern surrounding her illness.
Question 5: What does the silence between Sue and Behrman imply as they observe the tree?
Answer: The silence between Sue and Behrman suggests a shared understanding and concern for Johnsy's condition. It indicates a moment of mutual contemplation and empathy as they both reflect on the seriousness of the situation and the fragility of life.
Question 6: How does Sue's decision to work through the night reflect her dedication to her art and her friendship with Johnsy?
Answer: Sue's decision to work through the night demonstrates her commitment to her art and her determination to finish the painting for Johnsy's sake. It also reflects her deep friendship with Johnsy, as she prioritizes completing the artwork to bring comfort to her friend during her illness.
