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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section 1.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. During what decade does the correspondence contained in this volume take place?
(a) 1910s.
(b) 1900s.
(c) 1920s.
(d) 1890s.

2. What is Rilke's primary criticism of the young poet's writing in the first letter?
(a) It lacks creativity.
(b) It does not rhyme.
(c) It is shallow.
(d) It has no individual style.

3. How does Rilke say one can know if a poem is good?
(a) If it moves its readers.
(b) If it helps readers understand life.
(c) If it reflects human nature.
(d) If it is inspired by necessity.

4. In the first letter, Rilke says he cannot offer critical commentary on the young poet's work. Why?
(a) Rilke believes the young poet's work is flawless.
(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 cannot read the young poet's work because he is blind.

5. What type of poetry does Rilke advise the poet not to write?
(a) Epics.
(b) Love poems and other common forms.
(c) Narrative poems.
(d) Lyric poems.

Short Answer Questions

1. What acquaintance do Rilke and the young poet have in common?

2. What does Rilke advise the poet to do in regard to his efforts to get published?

3. What does Rilke call himself in relation to the young poet at the end of the first letter?

4. What does Rilke thank the young poet for at the end of the first letter?

5. What does Rilke say the young poet should do if he determines he should not be a poet?

(see the answer key)

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