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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. The narrator says, "No one could rival Arthur Less for his ability to exit a room while" (37) performing what action?

2. What topic is NOT on the list of questions Arthur Less is forbidden to ask the science fiction writer during the interview?

3. What lie does Arthur tell to his escort upon his arrival in Mexico?

4. In what country had Arthur Less bought his signature blue suit?

5. For how long was Arthur romantically involved with the professor, Howard?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Arthur automatically lie when he is asked whether he has ever been to Mexico?

2. For what purpose does Arthur accept all of the literary invitations he has received?

3. How does Arthur feel after his relationship with Robert ends?

4. What is the narrator's hypothesis about why Arthur spends nine years with Freddy?

5. What does the grandfather clock in the opening scene symbolize?

6. How do Arthur and Robert meet?

7. What are the reasons for Arthur's exhaustion the first morning he wakes up in Mexico?

8. For what purpose has Arthur come to New York City and what is its end result?

9. What does Freddy mean when he calls Arthur the bravest person he knows?

10. What is Arthur's reaction to Carlos's suggestion that he needs to "get an edge" (6) in order to decrease his level of vulnerability?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write a critical essay about the novel while using the critical power theory lens of queer theory. Use textual evidence to back up your strong, specific claim regarding the treatment of gender roles, sexual identity, and other issues related to queer theory that can be found in the book.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the author's use of humor alongside humanist messages within the novel.

Essay Topic 3

How is the topic of aging treated within the novel? Create a claim stating the author’s message regarding the process of aging.

(see the answer keys)

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