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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. How does Wallace treat Winston while playing ping-pong?

2. How does the porter react to Wallace carrying his own bag?

3. What church activity on the ship does no one participate in?

4. Wallace compares Ellery and Don Rickles in terms of ______.

5. What is Wallace's assignment for the cruise essay?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Wallace consider tennis to be the most beautiful and demanding sport?

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

3. Throughout his time on the ship, does Wallace have good self-esteem? Why or why not?

4. Why does Wallace sit alone at breakfast on the cruise ship?

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

6. How does Wallace feel about Conroy's Celebrity Cruise essay?

7. In terms of irony, why does Wallace appreciate Lynch's films?

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

9. When does Wallace suddenly become dissatisfied with the standards of his cruise ship? Why does this happen?

10. Why does Wallace say he is on the fence about Lynch casing Richard Pryor?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Wallace's essays often present an argument. Discuss how Wallace contradicts the arguments, his method of citations and antithesis and the effect this has on the final product.

Essay Topic 2

Wallace, in his alienation, often finds himself embarrassed or ashamed of himself. Discuss the source of Wallace's shame and the angle it presents for the experiences.

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?

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