Question: In focusing the show almost entirely on technique, the organizers of Beyond Impressionism have followed the lead of Degas himself, who steadily eliminated from his work any reference to contemporary life, preferring an artificial world of studio props and pliable models.
Degas was praised by many art critics for detaching his work from reference to contemporary works.

Answer: it is not possible to tell

Question: The difference is that Richardson pleads for understanding while Gopnik brays for outrage.
Gopnik wants understanding while Richardson pleads for an outrage.

Answer: no

Question: It gushed forth--and slowed; it frothed--trickled--and stopped entirely.
A liquid was flowing, at first quickly, then slowly, and then it stopped.

Answer:
yes