7. the story takes place in two main settings: the rockpile and the apartment.
compare the rockpile and the apartment. how are they similar?
a both are centers for play.
b both are centers of the community.
c both have a feeling of danger.
d both have a religious feeling.

Tobias wolff most likely named his short story "mortals" because the story explores the theme of people coming to terms with the idea that one day they too will die. wanting to find out what their loved ones really think of them. achieving immortalit by being "big people" while they are alive. hoping that they will have accomplished something before they die.