Contents of the Dead Man's Pocket

Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

Brainstorm a list of facts and ideas regarding the post-WWII era in the United States. Consider social and economic changes as post-war Americans drove demands for consumer goods.

Teaching Suggestion: Tom’s role in the economic boom influences his actions relating to his work and desire to succeed. Understanding this era can help students to understand Tom’s motivations and actions.

• This article from History.com describes the economic boom that occurred after World War II.

Short Activity

“Contents of the Dead Man’s Pocket” tells the story of a man driven to extremes by professional ambition. Using this premise as inspiration, write your own short-short story in a modern setting about a person who takes extreme actions to further their career.

Teaching Suggestion: While “Contents of a Dead Man’s Pocket” is set in the time after WWII, professional pressure and The Consequences of Unbridled Ambition are still prevalent today. Students might consider the rise of social media and its influence on people’s perceptions of themselves and success.

• This study from the American Psychological Association shows the increase in perfectionism among young people and the impact on mental health.