Textbook Solutions: The Last Leaf

(A) Choose the correct answer to complete these sentences. 

1.
Ans: (b)
Old ivy vine climbing halfway up the brick wall outside the window. The vine has almost bare branches with a few leaves.

2. 
Ans: (b)
Joanna believes that when the last leaf falls, she will die. Sue dismisses this as nonsense and wants her to focus on getting well by having broth.

3. 
Ans: (c)
Sue informs Behrman about Joanna's belief that she will die when the last leaf falls. She seeks his advice or help in convincing Joanna otherwise.

4. 
Ans: (a)
Despite the harsh weather, the last leaf on the vine remains, giving Joanna hope. This belief contributes to her mental well-being, and eventually, she recovers.

5. 
Ans: (b)
Behrman, touched by Joanna's plight, goes out in the cold night to paint a leaf on the wall to give her hope. This exposure leads to his illness and death.

(B) Read these lines from the text and answer the questions.

1. They're falling faster now. Three days ago there were almost a hundred.
(a) 
Ans: Joanna said this.

(b) 
Ans: She refers to the leaves falling from the ivy vine.

(c) 
Ans: Joanna was in a weakened and possibly feverish state. She associates the falling leaves with her own life and impending death, causing her distress.

2. I have something to tell you, dear.
(a) 
Ans:  Sue said this to Joanna.

(b) 
Ans: Sue tells Joanna about Behrman.

(c) 
Ans: Sue informs Joanna about Behrman's death, the circumstances, and the masterpiece he created.

(C) Answer in detail. 

1. 
Ans: Joanna's physical condition is weakened, and she associates the falling leaves with her own life. The belief that her life is tied to the falling leaves causes her distress, making her feel tired and anxious.

2. 
Ans: Behrman's masterpiece is the ivy leaf he painted on the wall on the night the last leaf fell. Sue says so because the painted leaf, remaining steadfast against the wind and rain, gave Joanna hope and contributed to her recovery. It symbolizes Behrman's sacrifice and artistic achievement.

(D) Think and answer. 

1.
Ans: This is subjective and open to interpretation. Students can discuss their opinions. Some may argue that Joanna's recovery was psychological, and the belief in the last leaf's survival played a crucial role. Others may suggest that medical care and proper nutrition were the primary factors in her recovery.

2. 
Ans: Students can provide their perspectives. Some may agree, emphasizing that Behrman, though unsuccessful in his artistic career, created a masterpiece through his selfless act before his death. Others may disagree, arguing that true artistic recognition and success during one's lifetime are essential for the achievement of an artist.