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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. In Sonnet XXVII, Neruda describes Matilde as being as simple as what object?

2. In Sonnet XLI, what does Neruda hint will bring an end to the "rough times" he describes?

3. In Sonnet XII, what does Neruda describe by relating it to a journey?

4. In Sonnet XVI, Neruda relates Matilde's body to which object?

5. In Sonnet VII, what does Neruda say reminds him of Matilde's eyes?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Neruda affected by the "bitter love" he experiences in Sonnet III?

2. In Sonnet I, how does Neruda describe Matilde's name?

3. What gives Neruda and Matilde the "eternal life of the Natural" in Sonnet XLVIII?

4. What are some aspects of Matilde's ugliness and beauty does Neruda list in Sonnet XX?

5. In Sonnet XXXIII, where are Matilde and Neruda before they return "across the crackling sea?" Why do they return home?

6. What is Matilde's role in the "miniature empire" Neruda describes in Sonnet XXXVI?

7. In what manner does Neruda say he loves Matilde in Sonnet XVII?

8. in Sonnet V, what does Neruda realize after he wanders through the streets "like a man wounded?"

9. In Sonnet XLV, what does Neruda say will happen to him if Matilde leaves?

10. In Sonnet XXIX, why does Neruda say he chose Matilde? How does her background influence his decision?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Assess Neruda's use of the sonnet as a form of poetry. How are Neruda's poems similar to traditional sonnets? How are they different? How does Neruda view his sonnets when he compares them to those of other poets? Be specific.

Essay Topic 2

Describe the significance of sleep to Neruda and Matilde. Why does Neruda urge Matilde to sleep in Sonnets LXXIX and LXXXI? Why is sleep so attractive to the two lovers? What roles do sleep and dreams play in the couple's relationship? Include specific examples from the book.

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the various properties of love described in Neruda's sonnets. How does Neruda view love? What properties does he ascribe to that emotion? Use specific examples from the book.

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