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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 does Steinbeck say about the journey he is about to take?

2. Where does Steinbeck stay in a motel on his second night?

3. What impact does the storm have on the Steinbecks' home?

4. Why does Steinbeck essentially ignore his doctors' advice?

5. Steinbeck writes, "We find after years of struggle that we do not take a trip; _______________________

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Steinbeck's encounter with the young sailor.

2. What is Steinbeck's explanation for the junk yards and garbage dumps surrounding the small towns and villages through which he passes?

3. Describe Charley.

4. What are Steinbeck's musings on junk?

5. Why are Steinbeck's friends concerned for his safety on the road?

6. Describe Deer Isle.

7. What does Steinbeck encounter that particularly unnerves him?

8. What is so depressing about Steinbeck's stop in Bangor?

9. What is ironic about Steinbeck being an American writer?

10. Describe New England voices.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain why Steinbeck looks forward to a visit to his hometown. What happens during the visit with his family? With an old friend? Why does Steinbeck think he disappointed them? How did they disappoint him? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Describe Rocinante, the camper. Why did Steinbeck choose this name for his vehicle? Do you think Steinbeck envisioned himself to be a Don Quixote-like character?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Steinbeck's writing style. How is he different from other writers of his time? What are some of his characteristic writing techniques? Identify some examples of his classic style in this book.

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