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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 2.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does Dillard describe the process of writing a book?
(a) "It is boring and difficult."
(b) "It is a dreamlike task."
(c) "It is life at its most free."
(d) "It is something to avoid at all costs."

2. Dillard refers to writing as changing "..from an expression of your notions to an epistemological tool." What does epistemological mean?
(a) Bacterial DNA that is extrachromosomal.
(b) A philosophy concerned with the nature and origin of knowledge.
(c) Greek knowledge.
(d) Surgical incision of the perineum during childbirth.

3. What does Dillard say shocked her as she remembered a formal lunch with a publishing colleague in Chapter 2?
(a) Her plants dying.
(b) Her lack of entertaining people.
(c) The sexist terms the man used.
(d) The fanaticism of her twenties.

4. As explained by Dillard in Chapter 1, what must be done to a piece of writing after the first draft is finished?
(a) You must strike it with a hammer.
(b) It must be mercilessly edited.
(c) Nothing; it is done.
(d) Delete just a few sentences.

5. What is needed in the world more than another excellent manuscript, as far as Dillard is concerned?
(a) Honey.
(b) Pollen.
(c) Shoes.
(d) Bees.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Dillard say that the printed word cannot compete with?

2. Dillard believes that some writers weaken their resolve to discard parts of their work. Why?

3. What part of the body does the "line of words" in Chapter 1 invade?

4. Which religious sect did Dillard read about in the Virginia library?

5. How did Washington writer, Charlie Butts, write fiction in order to gain momentum?

(see the answer key)

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