1. In the first letter, what does Rilke cite as the most disruptive hindrance to the young poet's progress?
(a) Non-artistic work.
(b) Drinking.
(c) Romantic entanglements.
(d) Looking for others to answer the poet's own personal questions.

2. In the first letter, which of the young poet's pieces does Rilke say demonstrates the most talent?
(a) "My Soul."
(b) "To Leopardi."
(c) Sonnet IV.
(d) "Ode to the Hills."

3. In the first letter, in what manner does Rilke suggest the young poet can tend to his personal growth?
(a) Publicly.
(b) Patiently.
(c) Quietly and seriously.
(d) Aggressively.

4. In the first letter, what does Rilke advise the poet to do to improve his writing?
(a) Emulate the best classical poets.
(b) Examine his inner self to determine what writing means to him.
(c) Begin studying music.
(d) Take a poetry class with Rilke.

5. In the first letter, Rilke says he cannot offer critical commentary on the young poet's work. Why?
(a) Rilke cannot read the young poet's work because he is blind.
(b) Rilke is ill and does not have the physical stamina to read the young poet's work.
(c) Rilke says that critical commentary is insufficient for understanding a work of art.
(d) Rilke believes the young poet's work is flawless.

Short Answer Questions

1. Rilke writes that "most events are inexpressible," and says that one category of things is more inexpressible than all the rest. What is this category?

2. How old is the young poet when he begins corresponding with Rilke?

3. During what decade does the correspondence contained in this volume take place?

4. In what year is the first letter from Rilke to the young poet written?

5. In the first letter the young poet sent to Rilke along with his poems, what does he ask of Rilke?

(see the answer key)

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