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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. Wallace speculates that there might be a _______point to Lynch using his ex-wife's paintings in "Lost Highway."

2. What does the Dreamward have more of than the Nadir?

3. When did Wallace's style of tennis become less effective?

4. Where are Lynch's ex-wife's paintings displayed in "Lost Highway"?

5. Wallace describes an exchange between the hero and the villain in "Blue Velvet." What is Lynch showing the audience through this scene?

Short Essay Questions

1. Is Wallace in good company in enjoying the activities on the ship?

2. Does Wallace believe he could have been a great tennis player? Why or why not?

3. What is Ellery supposed to represent?

4. Why doesn't Wallace leave his cabin on the cruise ship?

5. Why is the stadium at Joyce's qualifying match relatively empty?

6. How is morality a question in Lynch's films?

7. Why does Wallace ultimately spend most of his time alone on the ship?

8. When the ship docks in Cozumel, Mexico, why doesn't Wallace get off the ship?

9. Why does Wallace explain Michael Joyce to the reader?

10. Does Wallace enjoy ordering room service on the cruise ship? Why or why not?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Wallace discusses the use of irony mainly when discussing television and entertainment and criticizes it as being detrimental. Discuss Wallace's definition of irony and the detriments and benefits it has for art. What is Wallace's definition and objective with his argument? How does Wallace see irony differently?

Essay Topic 2

Through the collection "A Supposedly Fun Thing I'll Never Do Again," Wallace's style is thoroughly explored. Discuss Wallace's style and its reflection through this collection. Who is Wallace as a writer?

Essay Topic 3

Wallace often finds himself alienated from his surroundings and from popular belief, whether it is on the subject of television or participating in activities on a cruise ship. He also often addresses others who are alienated. Discuss Wallace's alienated condition and the effect on his experiences as looking in from the outside.

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