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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. Where does the sexual orgy take place in Chapter 9?

2. Who wrote “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner”?

3. William imagines a conversation between an Inspector and whom in Chapter 8?

4. What piece of music does William hear in Chapter 7?

5. What word does William claim is “English thief slang for inform”?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is the plot structure of “And Start West” different from the plot structures of the other vignettes in the novel?

2. How is the setting of “Campus of Interzone University” described? What is the Professor lecturing about at the beginning of the chapter?

3. What is symbolized by in Annexia and Freeland?

4. How does the narrative style and plot structure change in “Hassan’s Rumpus Room”?

5. Why do the Sailor and “Fats” Terminal meet in “The Black Meat”? What takes place in their meeting?

6. What is symbolized by the disease Bang-utot in the narrative?

7. What does the character of Joselito represent symbolically?

8. What happens when William Lee meets Miguel in “Lazarus Go Home”?

9. How is Joselito described? Where is he in the beginning of the chapter named for him?

10. Why is Willy at Hassan’s Hospital in “Hospital”? How is his situation described?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the character of Joselito and the history of tuberculosis and its treatment. What are the principle two options for Joselito’s medical treatment in the narrative? What are the pros and cons of each form of treatment?

Essay Topic 2

William’s character is based upon the real life and experiences of author William S. Burroughs. How does the book mirror William S. Burroughs' real life experiences, including running from the law, traveling to exotic locations, and becoming involved in underground drug and homosexual cultures?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the history of mind control and its uses. When was mind control first developed? What implications does the author give regarding the mind control of individuals within mainstream society?

(see the answer keys)

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