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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Those who wait to love as long as Paul come to what possible endings?
(a) A dead end coward or a bomb ready to explode.
(b) A sentamentalist or die of disillusion.
(c) A dry prune or the symbol of persistence.
(d) A cynic or a mascot of hope.

2. How does Paul begin seeing Cantwell?
(a) Alida sees Cantwell first and Cantwell suggest Paul comes to a session.
(b) At a friend's urging.
(c) César encourages Paul.
(d) Paul sees an advertisement.

3. What angers Paul as he vacations in Truro with Ellen?
(a) A stranger flirts with Ellen in front of him.
(b) A stranger states Paul is gay.
(c) Ellen flirts with another man on the beach.
(d) Ellen tells him he is not that great in bed.

4. Who does Paul dedicate his book of poems to?
(a) His parents and Bobby.
(b) Julia and César.
(c) Alida and Ellen.
(d) Roger and Stevie.

5. How does Paul handle his loneliness over the years after college?
(a) He becomes more religious.
(b) With one night stands.
(c) With magazines.
(d) He joins numerous clubs and activities to keep himself busy.

Short Answer Questions

1. What character type does Paul imitate to impress the Navy man?

2. What excuse does Julia give to break up with Paul?

3. What is special about Bill?

4. What does Bobby have that makes Paul feel even more sullen about his own life?

5. Where is the only place Paul feels he can hide?

Short Essay Questions

1. Paul describes walking away as important in interior decorating. Why is it important to be able to walk away? How is this the life of the high Bohemian? How does this match Paul's personality?

2. What epiphany does Paul realize as he gets to know the personal loves of all his lovers during his spree of flings in Boston?

3. Although many of Paul's friends die due to AIDS and he expects the same ending, what he Paul happy about?

4. What "new suit for the emperor" does Paul try out in his new life at Canton?

5. How does Paul manage his friendship with César? How far does it go?

6. Paul is exonerated of the accusations laid by Greg. What are some benefits and disadvantages to this?

7. What is Cantwell's theory on why Paul seeks approval? How does Paul feel about it?

8. What is Paul's life situation in the immediate year post-college? How does he feel about his situation? How do his parents feel about the situation?

9. What causes Paul to react the way he does with the Navy man after sex?

10. How does Yale fit into the 60's counterculture? How does Paul fit into the counter-culture?

(see the answer keys)

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