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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. In "Where Are We Going? And What Are We Doing?" Cage says Marchetti has gone where?

2. In "45' for a Speaker," Cage says a trip from where he is to what country is a complex series of experiences?

3. Cage attended a party to which he was not invited and secretly drank what drink while the hostess was not looking?

4. For what medium of art was Robert Rauschenberg famous?

5. In "Where Are We Going? And What Are We Doing?" Cage recalls asking if there was music played during meetings of what religion?

Short Essay Questions

1. How did Cage and David Tudor react when food shipped to them from India came in all mixed up?

2. How does the author think music will evolve in regard to percussion instruments?

3. Where did Cage get the idea to write "Where Are We Going? And What Are We Doing?"

4. What does Cage say about change in "Where Are We Going? And What Are We Doing?"

5. How does Cage avoid being psychoanalyzed?

6. How does Cage say "Where Are We Going? And What Are We Doing?" should be delivered?

7. What does Cage say about silence at the end of "45' for a Speaker"?

8. What contributions is painter Robert Rauschenberg known for?

9. What does Cage say on the subject of poetry in "Lecture on Nothing"?

10. What does the author say about modern dance and whether it works?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explore the author's dedication to innovation and change as seen through his layout on the page. What are some of the techniques Cage uses when writing? What different visual styles does he use? Why do you think he does this? What is he trying to say with his non-traditional style of writing?

Essay Topic 2

What is the significance of the series of anecdotes relating the perspective of various innovators in philosophy and art that only the present is important found in "History of Experimental Music in the United States"? Looking at each of the three anecdotes, what do they have in common, aside from their overall theme? In the article, does Cage ever say whether he agrees or disagrees with these sentiments? How does he seem to feel about the past and the future?

Essay Topic 3

Explore Cage's desire for change and his view that most people do not want change. What type of change is he referring to? Why does he think most people are reluctant? Does he seem to understand the perspective of those who are reluctant? What would he like to see happen to regard to accepting change? Is he limiting his desire for change to art, or do you think the change he seeks is part of a bigger picture? Use examples from the text to support your answers.

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