View a FREE sample

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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. If the young poet discovers he should not be a poet, Rilke suggests that his inner examination will not be worthless. Why not?
(a) The young poet may discover that he has a spiritual calling.
(b) The inner examination will result in the young poet determining a different course that may be better for the young poet.
(c) The young poet might then discover his talents for music.
(d) The young poet may be able to have a well-paying career.

2. In what year is the first letter from Rilke to the young poet written?
(a) 1909.
(b) 1910.
(c) 1902.
(d) 1903.

3. What is Rilke's salutation at the end of the first letter?
(a) "Warmest regards."
(b) "With gratitude and happiness."
(c) "Yours faithfully and with all sympathy."
(d) "Yours faithfully."

4. From where does Rilke instruct the young poet to derive inspiration?
(a) Nature, common human experiences, and memories.
(b) The political climate of the times.
(c) The words of other poets.
(d) Music.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. From where is the first letter from Rilke to the young poet postmarked?

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

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

4. How does Professor Horacek know Rilke?

5. In the first letter, which of the young poet's pieces does Rilke say demonstrates the most talent?

(see the answer key)

This section contains 309 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample