Question: What did Kenneth Rexroth say was perhaps the best ever book by an American?

Answer: “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. <hl> “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ <hl> Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. <hl> “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” <hl> — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”


Question: What year did Mr. Shoemaker read "Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel"?

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Answer: 1962

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” <hl> So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962 . <hl> Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in <hl> 1962 <hl>. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in <hl> 1962 <hl> .


Question: Who was dating Magda Cregg, the mother of Huey Lewis?

Answer: Mr. Welch

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. <hl> Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. <hl> “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. <hl> Mr. Welch <hl> was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”


Question: Where did Mr. Shoemaker first hear Mr. Connell?

Answer: KPFA radio show

<hl> Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. <hl> “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the <hl> KPFA radio show <hl> hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”


Question: Who hosted the KPFA radio show where Mr. Shoemaker first heard Mr. Connell?

Answer: Kenneth Rexroth

<hl> Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth . <hl> “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet <hl> Kenneth Rexroth <hl>. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet <hl> Kenneth Rexroth <hl> .


Question: What did Kenneth Rexroth say was perhaps the best ever book by an American?

Answer: “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. <hl> “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ <hl> Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. <hl> “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” <hl> — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”


Question: What year did Mr. Shoemaker read "Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel"?

Answer: 1962

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” <hl> So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962 . <hl> Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in <hl> 1962 <hl>. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in <hl> 1962 <hl> .


Question: Who was dating Magda Cregg, the mother of Huey Lewis?

Answer: Mr. Welch

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. <hl> Mr. Welch was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. <hl> “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”

Over lunch, Mr. Shoemaker said that he first heard of Mr. Connell while listening to the KPFA radio show hosted by the poet Kenneth Rexroth. “He had his growly, gravelly voice,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “and he said, ‘I’ve just finished reading the best book by an American perhaps ever. “Notes From a Beach Found at Carmel” — whatever you do, get a copy, read it, get it, this is one of the great books ever.’ Rexroth had that kind of power.” So Mr. Shoemaker read that book, in 1962. Around the same time, he met Mr. Connell at the No Name, where Mr. Shoemaker had first gone with the Beat poet Lew Welch, whose work he had published. <hl> Mr. Welch <hl> was dating a local woman named Magda Cregg. “She had a son,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “who became known as Huey Lewis — he chose Lewis because he loved Lew Welch. Lewie always told me that he taught Huey Lewis how to sing.” “Sausalito had the Tides,” Mr. Shoemaker said, “which was a very famous bookstore at the time. It was owned by a couple of people who were friends of Evan’s, a couple of doors beyond No Name. And those guys, the owners, bought the Washington Square Bar and Grill, otherwise known as the Washbag, which was one of the famous North Beach literary bars, famous for their softball team — Herb Caen played, and Claes Oldenburg made them a bat.”


Question: Who said that too many writer friends have died of alcoholism?

After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

Answer: Mr. Shoemaker

<hl> After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. <hl> I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

After lunch, <hl> Mr. Shoemaker <hl> walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.


Question: Who fell off a cliff in 1975?

Answer: Calvin Kentfield

After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. <hl> He mentioned Calvin Kentfield , who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. <hl> So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. He mentioned <hl> Calvin Kentfield <hl>, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

He mentioned <hl> Calvin Kentfield <hl> , who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995.


Question: What year did Richard Brautigan die of a self-inflicted gunshot wound?

Answer: 1984

After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. <hl> He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984 ; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. <hl> So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in <hl> 1984 <hl>; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in <hl> 1984 <hl> ; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995.


Question: Who died of a gunshot wound in 1995?

Answer: Don Carpenter

After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. <hl> He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter , another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. <hl> So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and <hl> Don Carpenter <hl>, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and <hl> Don Carpenter <hl> , another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995.


Question: Who no longer drinks?

Answer: Mr. Shoemaker

<hl> After lunch, Mr. Shoemaker walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. <hl> I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.

After lunch, <hl> Mr. Shoemaker <hl> walked with me down the sidewalk to the No Name. I asked if he would join me inside for a drink, but he declined. He doesn’t drink any more, he said. Too many writer friends died “of alcoholism, or the depression behind it,” he said. He mentioned Calvin Kentfield, who drank at No Name and in 1975 fell — or jumped — off a cliff in nearby Bolinas; Richard Brautigan, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1984; and Don Carpenter, another No Name drinker, also dead by gunshot, in 1995. So I went in by myself, ordered a Maker’s Mark, and chatted with the bartender, a retired boat skipper who had never heard of Evan Connell. I took some notes, listened to Simply Red on the piped-in radio, and bought a No Name T-shirt.


Question: Which country was happy a deeper crisis had been prevented?

Across Europe, there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. “The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval.

Answer: Europe

<hl> Across Europe , there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. <hl> “The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval.

Across <hl> Europe <hl>, there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. “The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval.

Across <hl> Europe <hl> , there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line.


Question: Who did Angela Merkel encourage to grant the approval of the deal?

Answer: German Parliament

Across Europe, there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. <hl> “The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval. <hl>

Across Europe, there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. “The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the <hl> German Parliament <hl> also grant its approval.


Question: Who is the Chancellor of Germany?

Answer: Angela Merkel

Across Europe, there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. <hl> “The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval. <hl>

Across Europe, there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. “The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages,” Chancellor <hl> Angela Merkel <hl> of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval.


Question: What did Angela Merkel express regarding her acceptance of the deal?

Answer: The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages

Across Europe, there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. <hl> “ The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages ,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval. <hl>

Across Europe, there was relief that a deeper crisis had been averted, but continued debate about whether Germany and its allies in taking a hard line with Greece had pushed Mr. Tsipras into an untenable and volatile political situation that could lead to further trouble down the line. “<hl> The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages <hl>,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval.

“ <hl> The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages <hl> ,” Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said at a news conference Monday morning, explaining her decision to accept the deal and recommend that the German Parliament also grant its approval.


Question: What does Aristos Doxiadis write about?

“At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about politics and has been critical of Mr. Tsipras in the past. “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” Ippolitos Papantoniou, 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.

Answer: politics

<hl> “At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about politics and has been critical of Mr. Tsipras in the past. <hl> “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” Ippolitos Papantoniou, 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.

“At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about <hl> politics <hl> and has been critical of Mr. Tsipras in the past. “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” Ippolitos Papantoniou, 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.


Question: Who was unhappy with the idea of increased austerity?

Answer: Ippolitos Papantoniou

“At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about politics and has been critical of Mr. Tsipras in the past. “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. <hl> “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” Ippolitos Papantoniou , 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty. <hl>

“At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about politics and has been critical of Mr. Tsipras in the past. “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” <hl> Ippolitos Papantoniou <hl>, 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.

“But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” <hl> Ippolitos Papantoniou <hl> , 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.


Question: Who will probably still have support from the Greeks?

Answer: Mr. Tsipras

<hl> “At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about politics and has been critical of Mr. Tsipras in the past. <hl> “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” Ippolitos Papantoniou, 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.

“At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about politics and has been critical of <hl> Mr. Tsipras <hl> in the past. “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” Ippolitos Papantoniou, 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.


Question: Who is Aristos Doxiadis critical of?

Answer: Mr. Tsipras

<hl> “At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about politics and has been critical of Mr. Tsipras in the past. <hl> “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” Ippolitos Papantoniou, 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.

“At a certain point he realized that he had been given very bad advice,” said Aristos Doxiadis, an economist and venture capitalist who writes about politics and has been critical of <hl> Mr. Tsipras <hl> in the past. “It wasn’t whether it was a good or a bad deal, but whether there was any feasible alternative.” Mr. Doxiadis said that Mr. Tsipras would probably emerge from the crisis remaining a major force in Greek politics, taking the place of the marginalized center-left party, Pasok. “Some will surely feel betrayed by what has happened,” he said. “But most Greeks will say this man tried very hard and if he was convinced there is no better way, then there is no better way.” Ippolitos Papantoniou, 55, a businessman, said he was depressed by the prospect of more austerity, after having gone through five years of tough measures with rising unemployment and poverty.


Question: Where did Mr. Tsipras meet with party officials?

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going somewhere that is not sustainable,” Mr. Papantoniou said. “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” In Athens, Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. The far-left faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while his right-wing coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.”

Answer: Athens

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going somewhere that is not sustainable,” Mr. Papantoniou said. “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” <hl> In Athens , Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. <hl> By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. The far-left faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while his right-wing coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.”

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going somewhere that is not sustainable,” Mr. Papantoniou said. “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” In <hl> Athens <hl>, Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. The far-left faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while his right-wing coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.”

In <hl> Athens <hl> , Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials.


Question: Where does Mr. Papantoniou feel things are heading towards?

Answer: somewhere that is not sustainable

<hl> “I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going somewhere that is not sustainable ,” Mr. Papantoniou said. <hl> “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” In Athens, Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. The far-left faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while his right-wing coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.”

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going <hl> somewhere that is not sustainable <hl>,” Mr. Papantoniou said. “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” In Athens, Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. The far-left faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while his right-wing coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.”

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going <hl> somewhere that is not sustainable <hl> ,” Mr. Papantoniou said.


Question: Which party believes the deal to be unacceptable?

Answer: right-wing

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going somewhere that is not sustainable,” Mr. Papantoniou said. “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” In Athens, Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. The far-left faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while <hl> his right-wing coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.” <hl>

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going somewhere that is not sustainable,” Mr. Papantoniou said. “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” In Athens, Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. The far-left faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while his <hl> right-wing <hl> coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.”


Question: Which party said they would vote no on new proposals?

Answer: far-left

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going somewhere that is not sustainable,” Mr. Papantoniou said. “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” In Athens, Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. <hl> The far-left faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while his right-wing coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.” <hl>

“I feel very bad, because fundamentally we’ve been humiliated, and we are going somewhere that is not sustainable,” Mr. Papantoniou said. “The austerity will begin again. I don’t know the details of the deal, but of what I have seen, I see that we have a dead end in front of us.” In Athens, Mr. Tsipras spent most of the day behind closed doors meeting with party officials. By the early evening, some repercussions from the deal were beginning to take shape. The <hl> far-left <hl> faction of his party announced that it would vote no on the new proposals, while his right-wing coalition partners said the deal was “unacceptable.”


Question: What was to receive a makeover?

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy European leaders. Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands; a makeover of the pension system; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as Mr. Tsipras’s allies talked of impeaching her.

Answer: pension system

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy European leaders. Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. <hl> Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands; a makeover of the pension system ; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. <hl> Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as Mr. Tsipras’s allies talked of impeaching her.

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy European leaders. Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands; a makeover of the <hl> pension system <hl>; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as Mr. Tsipras’s allies talked of impeaching her.

Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands; a makeover of the <hl> pension system <hl> ; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets.


Question: Which location was said to have a cut to its  special tax status?

Answer: Greek islands

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy European leaders. Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. <hl> Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands ; a makeover of the pension system; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. <hl> Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as Mr. Tsipras’s allies talked of impeaching her.

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy European leaders. Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the <hl> Greek islands <hl>; a makeover of the pension system; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as Mr. Tsipras’s allies talked of impeaching her.

Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the <hl> Greek islands <hl> ; a makeover of the pension system; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets.


Question: Which leaders were to be satisfied through the deal?

Answer: European leaders

<hl> Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy European leaders . <hl> Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands; a makeover of the pension system; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as Mr. Tsipras’s allies talked of impeaching her.

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy <hl> European leaders <hl>. Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands; a makeover of the pension system; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as Mr. Tsipras’s allies talked of impeaching her.

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy <hl> European leaders <hl> .


Question: Who wanted to impeach Ms. Konstantopoulou?

Answer: Mr. Tsipras’s allies

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy European leaders. Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands; a makeover of the pension system; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. <hl> Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as Mr. Tsipras’s allies talked of impeaching her. <hl>

Some analysts said that Ms. Konstantopoulou, a stickler for rules, could prevent him from using the fast-track procedures that would be necessary to get the job done in time to satisfy European leaders. Portions of the plan must be passed by Wednesday, and more a week from Wednesday. Among the elements that must be dealt with this week are increases in the value added tax, including the end of a special tax status for the Greek islands; a makeover of the pension system; and the imposition of automatic spending cuts if the government misses budget targets. Ms. Konstantopoulou issued a statement saying she had no intention of resigning, even as <hl> Mr. Tsipras’s allies <hl> talked of impeaching her.


Question: What would the deal force Green to open?

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up product and service markets, further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization. Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the International Monetary Fund survey every move he and his government make.

Answer: product and service markets

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. <hl> It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up product and service markets , further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization. <hl> Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the International Monetary Fund survey every move he and his government make.

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up <hl> product and service markets <hl>, further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization. Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the International Monetary Fund survey every move he and his government make.

It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up <hl> product and service markets <hl> , further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization.


Question: What would the deal improve?

Answer: tax collection

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. <hl> It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up product and service markets, further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization. <hl> Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the International Monetary Fund survey every move he and his government make.

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up product and service markets, further streamlining the pension system, improving <hl> tax collection <hl> and moving ahead on privatization. Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the International Monetary Fund survey every move he and his government make.


Question: What could the deal cause to become more reliable?

Answer: economic statistics

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. <hl> It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up product and service markets, further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization. <hl> Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the International Monetary Fund survey every move he and his government make.

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable <hl> economic statistics <hl> to more complex ones like opening up product and service markets, further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization. Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the International Monetary Fund survey every move he and his government make.


Question: Which organization is going to ensure things are done correctly by Mr. Tsipras and his government?

Answer: International Monetary Fund

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up product and service markets, further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization. Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. <hl> As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the International Monetary Fund survey every move he and his government make. <hl>

If the deal is a political earthquake for Greece, it also puts the country on course for a major economic shake-up. It aims to force Greece once again to tackle many issues it has kicked aside for years, from simple ones like getting reliable economic statistics to more complex ones like opening up product and service markets, further streamlining the pension system, improving tax collection and moving ahead on privatization. Yet even if the Greek Parliament passes a spate of reforms this week, Athens has a spotty track record at carrying out tough changes. As a result, Mr. Tsipras has now agreed to have the <hl> International Monetary Fund <hl> survey every move he and his government make.


Question: Where does Megan Greene work?

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.

Answer: Manulife

<hl> “It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. <hl> The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm <hl> Manulife <hl> who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.


Question: What was cut by previous governments?

Answer: cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. <hl> Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services , impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. <hl> The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by <hl> cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services <hl>, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.

Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by <hl> cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services <hl> , impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors.


Question: What is said to have killed the economy?

Answer: austerity

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. <hl> Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. <hl> Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that <hl> austerity <hl> is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.


Question: What type of firm is Manulife?

Answer: financial firm

<hl> “It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. <hl> The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the <hl> financial firm <hl> Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.


Question: What type of monitors would be the ones holding the 50 billion euros worth of state assets?

Answer: international

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. <hl> Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have international monitors. <hl> The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.

“It will be extremely difficult for the Greek people to accept such an adjustment off the back of five years of economic depression,” Megan Greene, a managing director at the financial firm Manulife who has been monitoring the Greek situation, said in a report. The creditors’ insistence on tough terms reflects years of pent-up frustration with Greece’s slow progress in modernizing the economy. Many claim that austerity is harder than it would have otherwise been had Athens moved swiftly to promote change. Mr. Tsipras and most Greeks say that austerity is what killed the economy, especially after previous governments slashed state spending 20 percent since 2010 under previous bailouts, mainly by cutting pensions, wages, health care and social services, impoverishing many Greeks One of the more contentious new demands from creditors — one that is likely to prompt an outcry among Greeks — is that Greece transfer €50 billion worth of state assets to a fund that would have <hl> international <hl> monitors. The fund would oversee sales to pay down Greece’s debt and help recapitalize its teetering banks. While many Greeks are bewildered at the situation, some see a silver lining.


Question: Who is quoted speaking about Mr. Putin?

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.

Answer: Mr. Trudolyubov

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. <hl> “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. <hl> All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” <hl> Mr. Trudolyubov <hl> said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.


Question: In percents, how much inflation is Russia experiencing?

Answer: 16 percent inflation

<hl> Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. <hl> “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, <hl> 16 percent inflation <hl> and a weak ruble. “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.


Question: Which Russian currency does the article speak of?

Answer: the ruble

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. <hl> “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble , or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. <hl> All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with <hl> the ruble <hl>, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.

“He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with <hl> the ruble <hl> , or the hospitals or the schools or the roads.


Question: What is Mr. Putin focusing on to the exclusion of Russia's problems?

Answer: reasserting Russia’s rightful position

<hl> Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. <hl> “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy <hl> reasserting Russia’s rightful position <hl> in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.


Question: What sort of traditions did czarist Russia have?

Answer: paternalistic traditions

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. <hl> In keeping with the paternalistic traditions of czarist Russia <hl> , Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.

Second, it gives Mr. Putin the opportunity to play the statesman, too busy reasserting Russia’s rightful position in the world to get caught up in problems like recession, 16 percent inflation and a weak ruble. “He wants to keep the society consolidated and to present himself continuously as a high-profile leader who lives somewhere above everything in the country,” Mr. Trudolyubov said, “so you cannot connect anything that he is doing to what is happening with the ruble, or the hospitals or the schools or the roads. All that is beneath him.” Third, there is a kind of “bread and circus” aspect to it all. In keeping with the <hl> paternalistic traditions <hl> of czarist Russia, Mr. Putin constantly assumes the role of national superhero.


Question: In which country did Russian fighting that the public considered necessary take place?

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.

Answer: Ukraine

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. <hl> Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state. <hl>

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in <hl> Ukraine <hl> — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.


Question: Roughly how many Russians are known to have joined the Islamic State?

Answer: 2,400 Russians

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. <hl> About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. <hl> It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About <hl> 2,400 Russians <hl> have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.


Question: Is it likely or unlikely that Putin will want to offer to send troops to fight in Syria?

Answer: unlikely

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. <hl> It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. <hl> The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. It is considered <hl> unlikely <hl> that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.


Question: During what decade did the Russian debacle in Afghanistan take place?

Answer: 1980s

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. <hl> The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. <hl> Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the <hl> 1980s <hl> remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.


Question: From what other Asian countries are 3,000 men fighting in Syria believed to be from?

Answer: Central Asian states

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. <hl> About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from Central Asian states are believed to be fighting in Syria. <hl> It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.

If the Islamic State seemed a distant threat at one point, the Kremlin now appears genuinely concerned about repercussions. About 2,400 Russians have joined the extremist movement, a senior security official announced recently, and an additional 3,000 men from <hl> Central Asian states <hl> are believed to be fighting in Syria. It is considered unlikely that Mr. Putin will propose sending Russian troops to join the fighting. The memories of the Russian debacle in Afghanistan in the 1980s remain too fresh. Even Russian casualties fighting next door in Ukraine — a war the public accepted as necessary for its own protection — were hidden by the state.