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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Miss Sampson attempts to illustrate Sedaris' speech problem by

2. Why is Sedaris unable to ignore the problem?

3. By way of explanation, Amy Sedaris explains her "bruises" and "sores" by saying

4. Sedaris describes his guitar teacher as

5. In the bathroom, the major problem Sedaris faces is

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Sedaris feel the need to offer a comment to the final performance artist he mentions in the essay before he leaves?

2. How does the speech therapist continue to bring Sedaris' lisp to his attention?

3. What is significant about the title Go Carolina?

4. What features of the the typewriter does Sedaris praise?

5. How does the statement "You Can't Kill the Rooster" relate to Paul's personality?

6. How are Valencia and Patrick different?

7. What reasons does Sedaris list for hating computers?

8. Why does Sedaris believe there are no "normal" restaurants left in his neighborhood?

9. Why does Sedaris suggest Miss Sampson's "timing was off" when she reveals her human side during their last session?

10. Why does Sedaris claim to prefer the belief that his television is inhabited by tiny humans over a scientific explanation of its workings?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider Sedaris' reflections on French and American culture. Based on these reflections, write an essay in which you argue whether Sedaris seems to "belong" in France or America. Use specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

In what ways do we see the the motif of self-discovery explored in Sedaris' essays? Choose three examples from the text in which Sedaris arrives at some form of self-discovery, and write an essay in which you determine how he has arrived at these moments.

Essay Topic 3

Sedaris mentions many means of escapism in his essays. Considering his references to avoiding reality and interactions with others, write an essay in which you identify at least three symbols of escapism Sedaris uses, and draw a conclusion about Sedaris' reason for using these methods. Support your position with specific examples from the text.

(see the answer keys)

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