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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What activity sends other passengers running for cover?

2. Wallace describes Lynch as being "_______ ambitious."

3. What advertising logo is hung around the Canadian Open?

4. When does the maid clean Wallace's cabin?

5. Why does Wallace describe Joyce in great detail to the reader?

Short Essay Questions

1. Does Wallace respond to the Celebrity Cruise brochure the way the brochure intends? Why?

2. Does Wallace give credit to Lynch's critics? What is his opinion of them?

3. What is Ellery supposed to represent?

4. How is morality a question in Lynch's films?

5. Is Wallace in good company in enjoying the activities on the ship?

6. Does Wallace enjoy ordering room service on the cruise ship? Why or why not?

7. How does Wallace feel about Conroy's Celebrity Cruise essay?

8. Throughout his time on the ship, does Wallace have good self-esteem? Why or why not?

9. According to Wallace, why is Joyce a professional tennis player?

10. How does Wallace anticipate he will be treated on the cruise ship? Why does he think this?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the essay "Getting Away From pretty Much Being Away From It All," Wallace is on assignment in his home state of Illinois. Through his exploration of the State Fair, Wallace's Eastern and Midwestern identities are brought into question and clashes between the two arise. Discuss what Wallace finds about himself and the regions as being a once native, now outsider.

Essay Topic 2

Wallace rarely discusses minor figures: most are successful and famous. However, he focuses on the person's struggle with this status and desires. Discuss Wallace's view of celebrity. Why does Wallace focus on these? What is the objective? What is the affect on the reader? What is displayed through his discussions of fame, struggle, and failure?

Essay Topic 3

Identity is a reoccurring them throughout Wallace's experiences. Identity crisis is a primary theme of "Lost Highway," as well as what causes him great distress in discovering his own. Discuss Wallace's commentary on one's identity.

(see the answer keys)

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