The Dharma Bums | Short Essay Assignments

Short Essay Questions

The 60 short essay questions listed in this section require a one to two sentence answer. They ask students to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the text. Students must describe what they've read, rather than just recall it.

Short Essay Question - Chapter 1 | Chapter 2

1. Describe the character of Ray Smith as he arrives in Los Angeles.

2. Describe the character of Japhy Ryder.

Short Essay Question - Chapter 3 | Chapter 4

3. Describe the house where Ray Smith is staying.

4. List the four men who sit together at Japhy's small home, drinking wine together and discussing poetry.

Short Essay Question - Chapter 5 | Chapter 6

5. Describe Princess as she is seen by Ray Smith when he arrives at Ray and Alvah's house.