View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Quentin feel about attending the underground party?

2. In Chapter 1: "December," why does Frank suggest going to Cleo's flat instead of his own?

3. In Chapter 2: "June," who was Frank's previous art director and friend?

4. In Chapter 3: "July," what does Cleo give Quentin to ease the pain after he's struck by Johnny?

5. In Chapter 1: "December," what term does Cleo use to describe New Year's Eve during her conversation with Frank?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Chapter 6: "Early September," examine the symbolism of Cleo and Peter's abrupt departure from the restaurant at the end of the chapter. What does this departure signify in terms of their relationship?

2. In Chapter 4: "Early August," how does the winter storm symbolize the characters' emotional states and relationships?

3. In Chapter 6: "Early September," how does the setting of the subway ride to Grand Central Station serve as a metaphor for Cleo's strained relationship with her father, Peter?

4. In Chapter 5: "Late August," discuss the theme of unconventional choices and their consequences in the chapter. How do Zoe's unconventional decision to attend the group and Portia's unconventional career as a Sugar Baby reflect the characters' choices and their impact on their lives and relationships?

5. In Chapter 6: "Early September," analyze the significance of Miriam's self-absorbed demeanor and constant discussion of her healing workshops. How does this behavior impact the dynamics at the lunch?

6. In Chapter 5: "Late August," explore the role of vulnerability in the chapter. How does Zoe's vulnerability manifest through her interactions with the group and her conversations with Portia? Discuss the impact of vulnerability on the development of her relationships and her character.

7. In Chapter 4: "Early August," how does the description of Cleo's appearance and actions in the snowstorm scene contribute to the chapter's themes of warmth and love in the face of adversity?

8. In Chapter 1: "December," what do Cleo and Frank discuss regarding gender stereotypes and their respective feelings about New Year's Eve?

9. In Chapter 1: "December," how does the novel portray the theme of spontaneity, and how does Cleo's interaction with Frank exemplify this theme?

10. In Chapter 2: "June," in the metaphysical shop, Cleo has her aura photographed. How does this moment shed light on her character's uncertainty and her search for meaning in her life and marriage?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Chapter 7: "Late September," how does the chapter's exploration of spontaneity and the pursuit of adventure relate to the broader themes of freedom and self-discovery in the novel?

Essay Topic 2

In Chapter 9: "January," explore the theme of miscommunication and emotional distance in the novel. Analyze how the author employs narrative techniques and symbolism to convey the complexities of their relationship. How does this scene contribute to the novel's exploration of human vulnerability and the consequences of impulsive actions?

Essay Topic 3

In Chapter 4: "Early August," how does the symbolism of the snowstorm and the characters' reactions to it in the chapter reflect their inner struggles, relationships, and emotional states?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,176 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample