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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. What is NOT true about the thugs sitting nearby in the restaurant?

2. Which of the following is NOT a reason Cleveland likes the collection activity?

3. What does Arthur do while Art speaks to his father on the phone?

4. About what topic does Phlox ask Art's father?

5. Where does Cleveland park his motorcycle?

Short Essay Questions

1. What seems to be the source of Art's greatest emotional pain?

2. How is Art both disgusted yet attracted to the experience of being with Cleveland when he makes collection calls?

3. How does Art end up alienating both Phlox and Arthur?

4. When do Art and Arthur first have sex?

5. How does Cleveland blackmail Art?

6. How does Art still struggle with his sexuality?

7. What is the symbolism of the cicadas for Art's life?

8. How does the author insinuate that Art's mother's death was somehow mob related?

9. What is a recurring motif in the story?

10. How does Phlox meet Art's father?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the role of gay men in the 1980s. What precedents do they feel compelled to follow? What restrictions do they have? What freedoms did they have that 21st century gay men do not have?

Essay Topic 2

The role of parental influence is a strong one on most of the men. Cite three examples noting the role of the family in general. Then cite three examples that showcase how the men feel their parents impacted them negatively.

Essay Topic 3

The theme of struggling with personal identity is an important one in this book. Describe how it extends through setting, character and issues and provide examples for each.

(see the answer keys)

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