Understanding Life Transitions and Connections

The speaker reflects on their decision to leave a place they were deeply connected to, influenced by personal events such as a family death and career demands. They discuss the challenges of balancing work in television with their passion for poetry and the opportunity to teach in the US. The ease of modern travel contrasts with historical difficulties, highlighting a lasting connection to their homeland.

What personal event does the narrator connect to their decision to leave?

• The death of a family member

• A new job opportunity

• A financial crisis

• A desire to travel

What was one of the reasons the narrator found their job in television demanding?

• Lack of creative freedom

• Concerns about weather conditions

• Frequent travel requirements

• Long working hours

Why did the narrator feel they couldn't write as much as they wanted?

• Time constraints due to work

• Lack of inspiration

• No access to writing materials

• Disinterest in writing

What opportunity arose for the narrator that influenced their decision to move?

• An offer to teach in the US

• A chance to travel the world

• A scholarship for further studies

• A new job in television

How does the narrator describe their connection to the place they left?

• Hostile

• Indifferent

• Very close

• Distant

What has made travel between the US and Belfast easier according to the narrator?

• Cheaper flights

• Improved roads

• Direct flights

• Faster trains

What does the narrator suggest about travel in earlier centuries?

• It was more affordable

• It was more comfortable

• It was quicker

• It was a rare opportunity

How long did the narrator live in their homeland before moving?

• 25 years

• 30 years

• 40 years

• 35 years

What does the narrator say about their knowledge of their homeland?

• It has faded over time

• It remains strong and detailed

• It is limited to certain areas

• It is based on second-hand information

Despite changes, what does the narrator feel about their homeland?

• It is no longer important

• It is completely different

• Much has remained the same

• It is unrecognizable