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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. In the vignette entitled "Godzone," a woman from what country packs her red suitcase?

2. The woman with the red suitcase has how many grown children?

3. The woman with the red suitcase makes several trips to what country?

4. Philip Verheyen was a real person from history who held what position?

5. In the vignette entitled "Whales, or: Drowning in Air," the narrator depicts a beached whale in what location?

Short Essay Questions

1. What elements does the unnamed narrator consider when deciding whether a story or a lecture is more appropriate for the story she has to tell?

2. In what way does the theme of compassion arise within Annushka's story?

3. What had the woman in rags been mumbling to Annushka when Annushka became frightened?

4. How does Tokarczuk present the theme of being present within the vignette entitled “Irkutsk-Moscow”?

5. In what way does the unnamed narrator show an affinity for secrecy?

6. How is the theme of family bonds demonstrated within Annushka's story?

7. What element does the narrator name as a "natural" (227) characteristic of the world?

8. Discuss the unnamed narrator's feelings about languages and secrecy.

9. How is the theme of ethnocentrism depicted within the vignettes focusing on James Cook?

10. How does Tokarczuk use postcards as a symbol?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Tokarczuk’s use of metaphor, simile, imagery, and other literary devices as a means to send particular thematic messages within the narrative of Flights.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the instances of irony within the narrative of Flights and analyze Tokarczuk’s purpose for including each instance you discuss.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Tokarczuk’s messages about guilt and responsibility within Flights. Focus especially on elements such as the feelings of responsibility Verheyen’s protege feels toward Verheyen, even after his mentor’s death.

(see the answer keys)

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