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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. How long has it been since Lanya has seen Kidd?

2. Where does Kidd believe he has been held for some time, but cannot quite remember?

3. What does Kidd begin to think about his writing and poetry?

4. What is Tak's profession?

5. As KIdd runs away from the woman, who does he find next?

Short Essay Questions

1. When Kidd first starts writing his poems, what does he think will happen?

2. What does Mr. Richards do everyday he "goes to work."

3. What is odd about June Richards?

4. What is odd about the people who stay in Bellona after the event?

5. What surprises Kidd about the sample book copy?

6. In Chapter II, what else does Kidd realize about his past?

7. Why do the scorpions begin to trust Kidd?

8. Why is Kidd angry with the Richards and why does he end his work relationship with them?

9. Who fills Kidd in on the riots that have occurred in Bellona?

10. Who does Kidd meet in the first chapter of the book?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

As a science fiction writer, symbolism is extremely important to Delany.

What does the supernova symbolize?

Analyze the symbol and discuss its role in the novel.

Essay Topic 2

1. Discuss whether you think that foreshadowing can be used in a novel with a circular structure.

2. If you agree, how is this helpful in possibly understanding Delany's work?

3. Find three examples of foreshadowing in the novel.

Essay Topic 3

1. Symbolism is heavily used throughout the novel. Pick three different symbols and analyze them.

2. Next, describe and discuss how Kidd comes into contact with these symbols in the novel.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 550 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample