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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 4.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Where does Styron spend his summers?
(a) In Paris.
(b) On his farm in Connecticut.
(c) At Martha's Vineyard.
(d) In Florida.

2. Right before the onset of his depression, Styron begins to suffer from what?
(a) Lack of sexual interest.
(b) Excessive sleepiness.
(c) Extreme joy.
(d) Hypochondria.

3. What clues does Gary reveal that Styron later learns was probably signs of deep depression?
(a) Constant weepiness.
(b) Shaky hands and weak, quiet voice.
(c) Lack of cohesive thought.
(d) Withdrawal from friendships.

4. According to Styron, what do people closest to those who commit suicide often do?
(a) Deny that the death was suicide.
(b) Grieve longer than for death from other reasons.
(c) Begin suffering from depression and are in danger of suicide also.
(d) Denounce their loved one.

5. How does Styron's body feel in the beginning of his depression?
(a) Heavy, lethargic, awkward, and bloated.
(b) Energetic, strong, capable, and lively.
(c) Numb, frail, disjointed, and clumsy.
(d) Manic, hyper, shaky, and strange.

Short Answer Questions

1. During one sleepless episode, what does Styron realize about his illness?

2. In what way does Styron's depression come upon him?

3. What did Styron's friend, Abbie Hoffman, do professionally?

4. Though the death of the poet, Randall Jarrell, was ruled accidental, why does Styron say it was probably suicide?

5. What quote from Baudelaire does Styron use to explain his feelings?

(see the answer key)

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