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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. Which of the following elements must be present in a story for it to be complete?

2. Which of the following does Knight say is not a story?

3. Which of the following is expected to be true?

4. Which of the following does Knight say is good for creativity?

5. What should emerge once a story evolves, according to Knight?

Short Essay Questions

1. What do many new writers mistakenly rely on to raise interest?

2. What elements are crucial in creating an interesting character?

3. Why is the first person perspective difficult for the writer?

4. What are some of the elements of style?

5. What tips does Knight give for naming characters?

6. What does Knight advise about drinking and drugs?

7. What should a writer do immediately after finishing a story?

8. What types of awkward repetition should writers avoid?

9. What kinds of courses does Damon Knight teach?

10. Describe the five questions a writer needs to ask himself before beginning his story.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does Knight describe a short story? What is the difference between a short story and a novel? Why is such a distinction significant?

Essay Topic 2

What are the important elements of a setting? What characteristics must a setting have to be realistic? Why? What type of setting is ideal, according to Knight?

Essay Topic 3

Describe the work habits that a writer should have, according to Knight. What should a writer do to be successful? What should a writer avoid to be successful?

(see the answer keys)

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