View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. One of the main themes in the poem is __________.

2. Ginsberg thinks about which famous poet?

3. Which adjective best describes Ginsberg?

4. Which mode of transportation is nearby?

5. Which part of society can be considered to be holy?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the purpose of the vision? Does Ginsberg understand this purpose?

2. Which things mentioned in the beginning of the poem bring serenity to the author?

3. Do you think that Ginsberg is being realistic in regards to this concept? Is there anything negative in the holiness?

4. What was involved in regard to some of the social and political action taken by Ginsberg's peers?

5. What is Ginsberg's take on people who may not be righteous?

6. How does Ginsberg's lack of money affect his attitude in this poem?

7. Why did Ginsberg experience a great deal of confusion and distress during his adolescence?

8. How does Ginsberg compare the flower to the locomotive? What is the symbolism/metaphor?

9. How does Ginsberg relate holiness to people?

10. What were some of the things the people of Ginsberg's generation did to try and ease the pain of youth?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In HOWL, Ginsberg talks about sex, drugs, alcohol, etc. as a substitute for something missing in one's life. Examine this theory. Do you agree or disagree? What proof is there to support each side of the argument? What is the basis for addiction? Is there a cure? If so, what is it and how is it administered? What is the "cure" rate for alcoholics and drugs addicts? Is one ever cured?

Essay Topic 2

Although there may have been difficult times post World War I and World War II, Ginsberg speaks a lot about gratitude. Why is gratitude so important? How is it possible to be grateful in the face of poverty or war? What is Ginsberg's opinion on material possessions? Explain what Ginsberg meant by having riches beyond material things. Write an opinion on simplicity versus materialism.

Essay Topic 3

Ginsberg speaks about workers on Madison Avenue in Manhattan. Compare and contrast the life of a freelance artist with one who works a 9-to-5 job. Do the same with a freelance writer or poet. Is one job more creative than the other? What are the pros and cons of each? Do you think the 9-to-5ers have sold out by taking jobs in advertising? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 651 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample