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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. When does Henry say he prefers sex?

2. What is Feldman trying to do at the same time as collecting insurance?

3. What does Henry buy with his winnings?

4. What kind of music does Henry like to listen to at home?

5. What does Henry say cost him his job?

Short Essay Questions

1. Summarize the eight section.

2. What does Henry find attractive about Jan?

3. How did Henry lose his favorite job working for the Red Cross?

4. How does Henry get fired from his job as a janitor?

5. How does Henry cure his itching crotch?

6. Summarize the fifth section.

7. Describe Mary Lou.

8. Why does Henry suddenly become interested in clothes in the eighth section?

9. What does Smithson tell the men he will teach them?

10. What is Henry's role in the clothing store?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What are the main turning points of the book? How does Bukowski develop his story to get to each turning point? What happens to the story after a major turning point?

Essay Topic 2

Aside from the main character, examine the way the author uses the other characters in the book. When does he introduce and take them away from the story? What effect does it have on the story?

Essay Topic 3

Pick two characters from the book and discuss his or her goals and motives. Do they achieve their motives? Do they share similar goals and motives with other characters? Do their goals clash with other characters? How do the characters' goals and motives affect their interaction with each other?

(see the answer keys)

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