Describe Tom as a dynamic character. How has he changed by the story’s conclusion? How does the change in his character develop the story’s theme about ambition?

Why does Tom risk his life to retrieve the sheet of yellow paper? What does it represent to him? How does it symbolize his values and the life he is living?

Clare is an important character in the story, even though she appears only briefly at the beginning. Describe how her character is woven into the story as it develops. What purpose does her character serve?