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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. Which of the following does Bukowski not have sex with in "3 Women?"

2. Why is Bukowski touched by Gloria Westhaven when she gets off the bus in Texas?

3. At the beginning of "3 Women," what happens to the tenant upstairs?

4. What does Danforth allow Bagley to do to him while in the car?

5. What percentage does a track take on every dollar bet, according to Bukowski's horse-wagering explanations?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the conditions of the charity ward?

2. Describe Cass and Bukowski's first night together.

3. Why is Cass drawn to Bukowski?

4. In "Twelve Flying Monkeys Who Won't Copulate Properly," what conclusions does Bukowski draw about his lifestyle as a writer?

5. Who is Kid Stardust and what is his purpose?

6. For what reasons is Bukowski satisfied with being evicted at the end of "3 Women?"

7. What is Tanya's purpose, according to Von Brashlitz, and why does she rebel?

8. Describe Bukowski's relationship with Vicki.

9. Why does Cass self-mutilate?

10. What is the purpose of the Satisfactory Help Agency?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the objectification of women in Bukowski's stories in the following format:

Part 1) Cass from "The Most Beautiful Woman in Town."

Part 2) Tanya from "The Fuck Machine."

Part 3) The body from "The Copulating Mermaid of Venice, California."

Part 4) The prostitute from "Trouble with a Battery."

Part 5) The prostitute from "The White Beard."

Develop a strong thesis statement and cite specific examples from the text.

Essay Topic 2

How does Bukowski depict his different lovers throughout his stories? In what ways does he differentiate between his casual flings and those for whom he has true feelings? What does this suggest about his relationship to sex? What is significant about Bukowski portraying himself as being in an abusive relationship with Vicki in "3 Chickens?" How does this contrast with his loving sacrifice of a relationship with Marie in "A Lovely Love Affair?"

Essay Topic 3

What are Bukowski's opinions on politics and world events? How is this related to his views of the world and society (particularly his statement at the beginning of "The Murder of Ramon Vasquez")? What does he believe about the world leaders and the people who follow them? What is significant about him depicting a world in which Hitler could take power again and no one would notice? How is this related to his beliefs in how he needs to live his own life?

(see the answer keys)

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