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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. After his big shopping spree, Arturo discovers:

2. At the beach, Camilla disappears:

3. The ironic thing Arturo says to Mrs. Hargraves about the rent is:

4. If Mr. Hargraves were alive, he would have:

5. His departure from the prostitute's room leaves Arturo feeling:

Short Essay Questions

1. Discuss the unfair discrimination Arturo experienced as a child..

2. How does Arturo survive his deep depression and low self-worth?

3. Why does Arturo mention Benny Cohen in this chapter?

4. Why does Arturo portray himself as such a patriotic American?

5. What is the irony of Arturo's attitude toward Mexicans?

6. What is the basis of Arturo's daring move to Los Angeles? What has given him the courage to relocate?

7. Arturo tells Mrs. Hargraves that he never changes his mind. Discuss that statement and why it is ironic.

8. Discuss Arturo's interactions with people at the hotel, other than Judy Palmer.

9. With all the stimulus in Los Angeles, why do you suppose Arturo has writer's block?

10. Why do Arturo and Camilla perpetuate the negativity between them?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The character of Sammy is important to Fante's story. Sammy has some things that Arturo craves, and some that Arturo feels superior to.

1) Discuss Sammy's lifestyle in the desert. What does this tell us about him?

2) Discuss Camilla's obsession with Sammy. Why does he reject her?

3) What are the things about Sammy that allow Arturo to stop feeling jealous of him?

Essay Topic 2

Pets are known to have a soothing effect on humans. Discuss Willie and his role in Camilla's life.

1) What did Willie bring to Camilla besides comfort?

2) What was Arturo's intent when he got Willie for Camilla?

3) Why didn't Camilla leave Willie with Sammy where he would be safe?

Essay Topic 3

Camilla is a very complex character, whose condition deteriorates over the course of this story.

1) Did Arturo's involvement in her life contribute to her demise?

2) Did her relationship with Arturo lead to her mental breakdown?

3) At what points in the story do we really like Camilla?

(see the answer keys)

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