illustration of two red kites hanging upon a Christmas tree

A Christmas Memory

by Truman Capote

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A Christmas Memory Questions on Buddy's Friend

A Christmas Memory

The main characters in "A Christmas Memory" are Buddy and his elderly cousin, whom he calls "my friend." Key deaths include the passing of Buddy's cousin and their beloved dog, Queenie. These deaths...

8 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

Buddy's friend in "A Christmas Memory" is characterized by her childlike innocence, creativity, and warmth. Despite her advanced age, she shares a close, playful bond with Buddy, engaging in...

4 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

Buddy's friend in "A Christmas Memory" has never done many common activities, such as watching a movie, eating in a restaurant, traveling more than five miles from home, sending or receiving a...

2 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

In "A Christmas Memory," Buddy and his friend feel disconnected and somewhat resentful towards their cohabitants, who are described as stern and unkind. In contrast, their feelings towards God are...

2 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

In "A Christmas Memory," Buddy and his cousin do not give fruitcakes to their family members or next-door neighbors. Instead, they send them to people they barely know, such as the President's wife,...

2 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

In "A Christmas Memory," Buddy's friend, his distant cousin, is annoyed by her inability to give him a bicycle, revealing her selfless nature and desire to give meaningful gifts. Despite their...

1 educator answer

A Christmas Memory

In "A Christmas Memory," Buddy's cousin cries intensely because she is overwhelmed with emotions. The holiday season brings back memories of past Christmases and the joy they shared, making her...

4 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

In Truman Capote's "A Christmas Memory," Buddy and his cousin, Sook, earn money through various means, such as killing flies for a penny each, selling blackberries, homemade jams, and flowers, and...

2 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

Buddy's cousin shows that the tree they have cut down is special by refusing to sell it despite needing the money. On their way home, she turns down an offer of cash because the tree is unique.

1 educator answer

A Christmas Memory

In "A Christmas Memory," Buddy and his cousin upset their relatives by sharing whiskey, which they obtained from Mr. HaHa Jones, to soak their Christmas fruitcakes. After making the cakes, they drink...

1 educator answer

A Christmas Memory

The hiding place of Buddy and his friend's Fruitcake Fund—a bead purse under a chamber pot beneath a bed—reveals their lack of power and support in the household. Their secretive methods reflect a...

2 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

This was Buddy's last Christmas with his friend, who was actually his cousin, because he was sent to military school afterward. Despite moving away, they stayed connected through letters, with her...

1 educator answer

A Christmas Memory

In "A Christmas Memory," Buddy's friend remains unnamed to emphasize the personal and intimate nature of his memories. Her identity is less important than her relationship with Buddy, which is...

1 educator answer

A Christmas Memory

Characters similar to Buddy's friend in "A Christmas Memory" include Dolly from Truman Capote's The Grass Harp. Both are eccentric, wise older women who mentor young boys, teaching them to appreciate...

2 educator answers

A Christmas Memory

The man vs. society conflict in "A Christmas Memory" arises from Buddy and his cousin's status as outsiders within their family and society. They are judged and misunderstood by those around them,...

2 educator answers