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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section 3.

Multiple Choice Questions

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

2. 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 moves its readers.
(d) If it reflects human nature.

3. Besides works by that writer, what other book does Rilke always have accessible to him?
(a) The Origin of Species.
(b) The Bible.
(c) A volume of Shakespearian sonnets.
(d) The Torah.

4. From whom does Rilke advise the young poet to avoid seeking advice?
(a) Artists.
(b) Parents.
(c) Poets.
(d) Military officers.

5. What city has Rilke departed from to come to the place where he composes the fourth letter?
(a) Worpswede, near Bremen, Germany.
(b) Paris, France.
(c) Viareggio, near Pisa, Italy.
(d) Berlin, Germany.

Short Answer Questions

1. Rilke writes that "most events are inexpressible," and says that one category of things is more inexpressible than all the rest. What is this category?

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

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

4. To what does Rilke compare artistic experience?

5. Which letter from the young poet is Rilke responding to with his fourth letter?

(see the answer key)

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