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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. Gilder believes technology can be solved with ________.

2. Why does Wallace feel the theme of consumption is appropriate for this state fair?

3. Wallace isn't sure what _____ everyone at the car race is waiting for.

4. What about Leyner's image-fiction made Wallace wonder if pop-culture is all people have become?

5. What ride is Wallace kicked off of?

Short Essay Questions

1. What connection does Wallace see between tennis, geography, and the wind?

2. What does Wallace observe as ironic in television? Does he see this as detrimental? How?

3. According to Wallace, what tendencies does television appeal to? Who is television's target?

4. How does Wallace suggest a writer rebel against the "new ironic orthodoxy"?

5. According to Wallace, are commercials self-aware? What is the effect of this on the viewer?

6. What is the idea of Image-Fiction? Why does it exist?

7. What caused Lynch's downfall in the movie industry?

8. Does Wallace's visit to the stockyard barns affect Wallace at all? Why or why not?

9. Why does Wallace feel the Desert Competition is appropriate for Illinois?

10. Why was Wallace assigned to the Illinois State Fair article for Harper's?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Wallace often addresses his Midwestern roots in his essays, implying that the Midwest has shaped him in some way. Discuss how the Midwest has shaped Wallace and the way it is reflected in his writing.

Essay Topic 2

In the essay "David Lynch Keeps His Head," Wallace discusses his views on Lynch's career and artistic vision. Discuss how using David Lynch Wallace responds to his earlier, broader commentary on American media.

Essay Topic 3

In several essays, Wallace discusses his experience in tennis and his fondness for the sport. He often likens it to other activities and concepts, making it appear that it is an integral part of him although he doesn't play anymore. Discuss what tennis represents to Wallace and how it thematically aids the collection of essays. What is it to represent?

(see the answer keys)

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