The Killers

The story can be devided into four scenes:  1) in Henry's lunch-room, 2) in Ole Anderson's room, 3) inside the street door of the rooming-house and 4) back in Henry's lunch-room.     

1. Is there a beginning in the story?  What are the conflicts?  Where is the climax?  And the resolution?

1. Nick is the protagonist that strings through the four scene.  Does he changes through these four scenes?  What surprises Nick, or denies his expectation, in each scene?
2. How do Nick, George and Sam react differently to the killers?  Who is often called a "bright boy" by the killers?
3. [From where do you get your impression about the characters?  From their words and action?  The author's comment and description?  Or from what others say about them?] 

1. What is the theme, or the general idea, that gives unity to the action of the story?  (the significance, or the "so what")
2. Why does Nick want to leave the town Summit?  Why is the town called Summit?  Why is it a "hot" town?  What does he see there? 
3. Why is Ole Anderson going to be killed?  Does he deserve it?  Why doesn't he try to escape? 
4. What do the killers look like?  Are they evil?  Why do they keep looking at the clock?