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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 LXVI, what is the reason Neruda says he will die?

2. In Sonnet LXXV, what does Neruda say the house has forgotten how to do?

3. In Sonnet LXXXIX, why does Neruda want Matilde to live on after he has died?

4. When Neruda returns to Matilde in Sonnet LXXX, where had he been?

5. In Sonnet XCIX, what time period does Neruda contemplate?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. In Sonnet XCI, what overshadows the life that he gives to Matilde "like a swelling cluster of fruit?"

3. How does Neruda describe Matilde's laugh in Sonnet LI?

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

5. In Sonnet XCIII, why does Neruda ask Matilde to leave her mouth half-open if she should die before him?

6. How does Neruda contrast cold and warmth in Sonnet LXXXVIII?

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

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

9. What effect does Matilde's absence have on Neruda in Sonnet LXV?

10. Why does Neruda urge Matilde to sleep in Sonnet LXXXIX?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

Choose at least three recurring motifs that appear throughout Neruda's works. Explore the significance of each recurring motif, including any symbolism associated with the motif. Support all assertions with examples from the text.

Essay Topic 3

Wood is a recurring theme in Neruda's 100 Sonnets. Analyze Neruda's usage of that motif and examine the symbolism and imagery associated with wood. Be sure to support all assertions with examples from the book.

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