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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section 6.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Rilke enclose with his third letter to the young poet?
(a) Copies of some of his poems.
(b) A list of his most recent books.
(c) A note to Professor Horacek.
(d) Names of publishers to whom the young poet can send his work.

2. What does the sixth letter reveal about the state of the young poet?
(a) The young poet is enjoying his new career.
(b) The young poet is relishing his solitude.
(c) The young poet is suffering from writer's block.
(d) The young poet is sad and lonely.

3. In letter five, what statue does Rilke mention is near his place of residence?
(a) An equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius.
(b) A statue by Rodin.
(c) An equestrian statue of Julius Caesar.
(d) A statue of Ovid.

4. What does Rilke believe is wrong with sex?
(a) It is not wholly human and is based on temporary emotions.
(b) It goes against Christianity.
(c) It distracts the artist from his work.
(d) It subordinates women.

5. What does Rilke say about careers in the sixth letter?
(a) They provide inspiration for poetry.
(b) They distance the individual from his or her true self.
(c) They help to discipline the individual.
(d) They show individuals their true selves.

Short Answer Questions

1. Rilke says that there is only one thing that "can grasp and hold and be just toward" art. What is that thing?

2. At the close of the sixth letter, what does Rilke advise the young poet to do in regards to the coming holiday?

3. To what does Rilke compare the realization about the true nature of human existence in letter eight?

4. Besides works by that writer, what other book does Rilke always have accessible to him?

5. In the second letter, who does Rilke cite as his artistic influences?

(see the answer key)

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