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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which of the following adjectives best describes Chinaski of the present in "Zero"?
(a) Docile.
(b) Aggressive.
(c) Angry.
(d) Sympathetic.

2. What is the name of Chinaski's friend in "The Stride"?
(a) Norbert.
(b) Neil.
(c) Nell.
(d) Norman.

3. Who is the subject of the poem "Retired"?
(a) Chinaski's father.
(b) Chinaski's brother.
(c) Chinaski's mother.
(d) A homeless man.

4. According to Chinaski, where are all of his defenders?
(a) North America.
(b) Europe.
(c) South America.
(d) Asia.

5. Chinaski believes that most poets are which of the following?
(a) Selfish.
(b) Privileged.
(c) Innocent.
(d) Angry.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which poem is considered a play on words?

2. Chinaski believes the best companion is _____________.

3. What does Bukowski seem to defend through his poetry?

4. Chinaski argues that his friend from "Stride" would feel crestfallen to see what which of the following does to a man?

5. Whom does Chinaski say he loves in "Supposedly Famous"?

Short Essay Questions

1. In his poems, Bukowski acknowledges that all people have what, and why?

2. Describe the overall tone and themes of the poems in Bukowski's book.

3. Why does Chinaski view criticism in a dismissive manner?

4. What does Chinaski point out in "Termites of the Page"?

5. What does "The Master Plan" reveal about Chinaski?

6. How is Chinaski portrayed in "Zero"?

7. How does Chinaski feel about Joe O'Brien, and how does he react to his death?

8. How does Chinaski juxtapose "Stride" and "The Final Story"?

9. What happens in "The Passing of a Great One" and "The Wine of Forever"?

10. What is the poem "Shoes" about?

(see the answer keys)

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