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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section 2.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. 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) "Is my writing truly reflective of myself?"
(c) "Must I write?"
(d) "Is my writing genuine?"

2. In letter three, what does Rilke claim to be the most important element of becoming an artist?
(a) Open-mindedness.
(b) Creativity.
(c) Love.
(d) Patience.

3. 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 Rilke can send the poet a poem Rilke has written.
(c) If Rilke can help the poet get published.
(d) If his poems are good.

4. What does Rilke advise the poet to do in regard to his efforts to get published?
(a) Send his poems to the United States.
(b) Discontinue his efforts to receive feedback from publishers and other external parties.
(c) Send his poems to as many magazines as possible.
(d) Send his poems to Rilke's publisher.

5. 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 young poet may be able to have a well-paying career.
(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.

Short Answer Questions

1. Rilke says that there is only one thing that "can grasp and hold and be just toward" art. What is that thing?

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

3. In letter three, how many books does Rilke say he has published?

4. What does Rilke send to the young poet in reply to the poet's first letter?

5. To what does Rilke compare artistic experience?

(see the answer key)

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