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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 LXXIII, what word does Neruda use to describe the woman who "rose like a fish from the abyss?"

2. In Sonnet XCVII, what flower does Neruda say the subject of the poem will be transformed into on another planet?

3. In Sonnet LVIII, where does Neruda go while he is "singing with the wind?"

4. Which image does Neruda NOT use to describe the constellation in Sonnet LXXXVI?

5. In Sonnet LXXVIII, what does Neruda say he has fought against?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Sonnet LXXII, what causes Neruda to exclaim, "Let's go -- get up -- pin back your hair -- take off and land?"

2. In Sonnet XCII, what does Neruda choose to contemplate instead of the inevitable death of either himself or Matilde?

3. How does Neruda describe his homeland in Sonnet LXIII?

4. What does Neruda ask of the "four-sided constellation" in Sonnet LXXXVI?

5. What defeats envy and rancor in Sonnet LVI?

6. in Sonnet LXIX, what does Neruda say is the possible definition of "nothingness?"

7. What is unusual about the images of winter and cold in Sonnet LXXIV?

8. In Sonnet LXXXIII, where is Matilde as she sleeps -- both in body and in spirit?

9. What are Neruda and Matilde looking for in Sonnet XCV, and what do they plan to do once they find it?

10. In Sonnet LX, what effect do Neruda's trials and sorrows have on Matilde?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

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

The specific imagery in each of Neruda's sonnets creates a definite mood and tone for each poem. Using at least four different poems, provide an in-depth analysis of mood and tone in Neruda's work. For each poem, provide specific examples of words or phrases that contribute to the poem's overarching mood, and explain how each poem's syntax perpetuates the mood established in each sonnet.

(see the answer keys)

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