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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. When was Philip Whalen born?

2. Who is the author of the poem "Plus Ca Change"?

3. Who opened the City Lights Bookstore?

4. Whose death is "Thou Shalt Not Kill" written in mourning of?

5. What is the name of the character based on Neal Cassady in Go?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Huncke's depictions of sexuality in his work.

2. In his letters to Kerouac, what is Cassady's description of how he lost his old girlfriend Joan in Denver?

3. Describe the poetry of Gregory Corso, including subject and themes.

4. What are Herbert Huncke's contributions in the anthology? On what subjects does he focus?

5. Who is Kenneth Rexroth? What is his contribution in the anthology?

6. Who is Micheal McClure? Describe his "Peyote Poem."

7. How do Cassady and Kerouac differ on their perspective of Cassady's childhood?

8. What are some examples of religious allusion in "Howl"? What do they represent?

9. Describe John Clellon Holmes' writing style. How does it compare with Kerouac's?

10. What political allusions are used in "One Thousand Fearful Words for Fidel Castro"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the impact that the members of the Beat Generation had on those around them, as expressed in "Tales of Beatnik Glory." What were their families like?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the poets Gary Snyder and Philip Whalen. Where did these poets meet? How did they become associated with the Beat Generation?

Essay Topic 3

Describe the works of poet Diane DiPrima. What stylistic elements are notable in DiPrima's work? What are her common subjects and themes?

(see the answer keys)

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