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

Multiple Choice Questions

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

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

3. 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 be able to have a well-paying career.
(b) The young poet may discover that he has a spiritual calling.
(c) The young poet might then discover his talents for music.
(d) The inner examination will result in the young poet determining a different course that may be better for the young poet.

4. What does Rilke send to the young poet in reply to the poet's first letter?
(a) Money.
(b) A list of potential publishers.
(c) A letter and the poet's poems.
(d) A volume of Rilke's poetry.

5. What does Rilke ask the young poet to do for him at the end of the first letter?
(a) Tell Professor Horacek of Rilke's esteem for him.
(b) Distribute Rilke's books to the young poet's friends.
(c) Visit his mother.
(d) Write a letter to the young poet's school informing the school of Rilke's success.

Short Answer Questions

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

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

3. From where does Rilke instruct the young poet to derive inspiration?

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

5. In the first letter, Rilke says he cannot offer critical commentary on the young poet's work. Why?

(see the answer key)

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