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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. Why does Arturo tell wild stories of his great heroism after the earthquake?

2. Hellfrick helps Arturo:

3. One indication that everything has changed for Arturo is:

4. Arturo's novel will be published, but Camilla is now:

5. When Arturo does something nice, he is often:

Short Essay Questions

1. Does maturity has much to do with the constant friction between Arturo and Camilla?

2. What does Fante accomplish with the character, Vera, and the relationship between her and Arturo?

3. What does the sad character, Vera's presence in this chapter represent to Arturo?

4. Discuss what happens to Arturo's relationship with Hellfrick.

5. What is Arturo's intention when he waits in Camilla's car for her?

6. Arturo finally gets a big break with the publishing of his new book about Vera. What happens to Camilla?

7. Discuss the emotional "dance" that goes on between Arturo and Camilla. Why are they unable to get along?

8. What does Arturo have against Sammy? How does Sammy help Arturo?

9. What is Vera's opinion of Arturo's writing?

10. Do you consider Arturo pathetic for taking Camilla's hat?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The house on Laguna Beach represents a hope for normalcy on Arturo's part.

1) What is it about a house that embodies the possibility of a normal life?

2) What does the house, apparently, represent to Camilla?

3) Why is Arturo unable to stay in the house, once Camilla disappears?

Essay Topic 2

Arturo's fears are looming, complicated and numerous. Although he lists some of them earlier in the story, during the earthquake we are allowed to observed the true depth of his phobias.

1) How does the bed hanging from the open wall of Vera's demolished apartment affect Arturo?

2) How would you describe his state as he watches the people gathering and singing?

3) What are the more humorous responses Arturo has to the earthquake?

Essay Topic 3

There is a significant amount of substance abuse in the story. Why does Fante include this element?

1) What characteristic of the characters is represented by their use of substances, i.e., does it indicate weakness, happiness, boredom, etc.

2) Written at a time when marijuana was not so well-known, what is it about marijuana that Fante shows us in this story?

3) Compare Sammy's drinking habits to Camilla's; how are they alike or different?

(see the answer keys)

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