View a FREE sample

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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In the first letter the young poet sent to Rilke along with his poems, what does he ask of Rilke?
(a) If Rilke can come visit him.
(b) If his poems are good.
(c) If Rilke can help the poet get published.
(d) If Rilke can send the poet a poem Rilke has written.

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

3. How does Rilke suggest one knows if one should not be a poet?
(a) If one is bored by one's own writing.
(b) If one cannot get published after 100 tries.
(c) If one does not like to read others' poetry.
(d) If one can live without writing.

4. Rilke challenges the young poet to ask himself a question regarding his writing. What is that question?
(a) "Must all of these words be part of the work?"
(b) "Must I write?"
(c) "Is my writing truly reflective of myself?"
(d) "Is my writing genuine?"

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

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Professor Horacek know Rilke?

2. What is the name of the young poet who is the recipient of the letters contained in this volume?

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

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

5. What type of poetry does Rilke advise the poet not to write?

(see the answer key)

This section contains 346 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample