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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through "Some Women," "The Long Distance Runner," "Last Words" Part I.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Didion say she did when she first read the college rejection letter in "On Being Unchosen by the College of One's Choice"?
(a) She cried.
(b) She tore the letter.
(c) She called her mom.
(d) She did not really care.

2. Who found Hemingway after he had shot himself in 1961?
(a) His agent.
(b) His brother.
(c) His son.
(d) His wife.

3. What does Didion say she associates that word serenity with in "Getting Serenity"?
(a) Death.
(b) Peace.
(c) Joy.
(d) Gardening.

4. In "Telling Stories," what Hemingway short story does Didion mention as an example of a writer's "absolute control" (54)?
(a) "The Killers."
(b) "A Clean Well-Lighted Place."
(c) "Snows of Kilimanjaro."
(d) "Hills Like White Elephants."

5. How many nights does one of the speakers say he has been free from his addiction in "Getting Serenity"?
(a) 365.
(b) 87.
(c) 13.
(d) 1,223.

Short Answer Questions

1. From whom does Didion say she stole the title "Why I Write"?

2. In "Why I Write," Didion refers to writing as "the tactic of a secret" what?

3. In "Long Distance Runner," what argument does Didion cite when discussing how Richardson liked to be contrary?

4. What kind of talk does Didion find unsettling during the meeting in "Getting Serenity"?

5. What is the name of the female character in A Book of Common Prayer which Didion discusses in "Why I Write" ?

(see the answer key)

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