1. What symptoms did Jarrell suffer from that caused Styron to believe in Jarrell's suicide?
(a) He often mentioned life wasn't worth living.
(b) Black despondency, violent fluctuation of mood, and his deep depression.
(c) He wanted his wife to have money and his insurance would give it to her.
(d) He had a terminal illness and was in pain.

2. What pressing question does Styron have about the course of depression?
(a) Why doesn't the person just cheer up and get over it?
(b) What medicines are effective?
(c) Why do some who suffered commit suicide while others don't?
(d) Why would a person who has everything still be depressed?

3. What is the award Styron receives?
(a) Nobel Peace Prize.
(b) He didn't receive one, he was giving one.
(c) Newberry Award.
(d) Prix Mondial Cino del Duca award.

4. How old was Styron when he published his first novel?
(a) Mid-20's.
(b) 40.
(c) 35.
(d) 15.

5. In what year does Styron first realize his illness could lead to his death?
(a) 1950.
(b) 1985.
(c) 1989.
(d) 1990.

Short Answer Questions

1. What philosophical question does Gary present as central to all philosophy; a question that confuses Styron until years later when he suffers his depression?

2. Which group of people have more incidence of depression than all others?

3. In the depth of his depression in Paris, what does Styron realize he would have to decide?

4. Who is Styron's literary guide?

5. What does Styron say about not returning to France?

(see the answer key)

This section contains 335 words
(approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page)

View a FREE sample