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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 8.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In addition to anxiety, what other characteristic of depression becomes manifest?
(a) Deep, dark imaginings.
(b) Incessant talking.
(c) Argumentative with family and friends.
(d) An inability to be still, constantly moving.

2. What note does Styron want to copy for his goodbye letter?
(a) "Life is no longer worth it."
(b) "This is the end. Don't mourn."
(c) "I am sorry for any pain I cause. My pain is greater."
(d) "No more words; an act. I'll never write again."

3. What reaction does Styron have to a flock of Canadian geese?
(a) He thinks they are graceful.
(b) He tries to shoot them.
(c) He is frozen in anxiety at the sight of them.
(d) They temporarily restore his good feelings.

4. Which group of people does depression never happen to?
(a) None are excluded; it attacks all groups.
(b) Mothers who enjoy their role.
(c) Older people who have gotten a grasp on life.
(d) People younger than their teens.

5. What reaction to the op-ed piece causes Styron to decide to write this memoir?
(a) His editor asked him to write the memoir.
(b) He learned his piece had saved someone's life, so wanted to reach out with more information.
(c) The number of people reacting positively causes him to think sharing his experiences would be beneficial.
(d) People indicated they just didn't understand depression.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Styron want us to understand about those who commit suicide?

2. Which novel character does Styron compare himself with?

3. What hope does Styron say a depressed person can have?

4. How does his diary represent his mental state?

5. What happens to Styron during his museum visit in Paris?

(see the answer key)

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