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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Jon accuse Elaine of, after she confronts him about a woman calling the house for him?

2. Where does Elaine live while she's attending college?

3. What does the angry woman at the art show throw at Elaine's paintings?

4. What old route does Elaine walk?

5. How does Elaine describe herself in the eleventh grade?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss criticism in the novel.

1) What does criticism of Elaine's art mean to her? How does she relate to the press and others that view and criticize her life and work as an artist?

2) What role does criticism play in Elaine's childhood relationship with Cordelia and her other friends? Where is the line between constructive criticism and abuse?

3) Why does Elaine become critical of others in high school? Why do Elaine and Cordelia spend their time criticizing others?

Essay Topic 2

Elaine's relationship with Stephen is an important aspect of her life. Discuss the role of Stephen in the novel.

1) What role does Stephen play in Elaine's childhood? How does growing up with a brother affect Elaine's perception of men and women?

2) What role do Stephen's ideas about time and physics play in Elaine's life and artwork?

3) How does Stephen's death affect Elaine and her family?

Essay Topic 3

There are many instances of theft and begging in the novel. Discuss the significance of theft and begging to the novel.

1) Why does Elaine think of Cordelia when someone tries to steal her wallet? In what way has Cordelia stolen from her?

2) Why does Elaine always give to people who beg from her? Why does Elaine think one woman who comes to beg from her might be Cordelia?

3) Who has stolen or taken (emotionally) from Elaine during her life? Is Elaine partially responsible for these instances?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 375 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample