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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. What kind of magazines does Chinaski write for in "O Tempora! O Mores!"?
(a) Women's magazines.
(b) Pornographic magazines.
(c) Home improvement magazines.
(d) Outdoor magazines.

2. Which of the following is a theme not reflected by these poems?
(a) Solitude.
(b) Regret.
(c) Acceptance.
(d) Joy.

3. Chinaski believes the best companion is _____________.
(a) His wife.
(b) His pets.
(c) Himself.
(d) His ex-girlfriend.

4. In "The Master Plan," where does Chinaski survive a harsh winter?
(a) Miami.
(b) New York.
(c) Philadelphia.
(d) Los Angeles.

5. Where does the woman in "A Good Time" want to be taken?
(a) Miami.
(b) Los Angeles.
(c) New York.
(d) Las Vegas.

Short Answer Questions

1. In which poem does Bukowski relate his famous origin story?

2. Whom does Chinaski pity in "Supposedly Famous"?

3. Which of the following adjectives best describes Chinaski of the present in "Zero"?

4. Where does Chinaski live?

5. What is Chinaski's emotion in "I'll Take It..."?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the role of loss in Bukowski's poetry.

2. What relationships are defined in "A Non-urgent Poem" and "For My Ivy League Friends"?

3. What metaphor does Chinaski use to symbolize modern America?

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

5. Describe Chinaski's father and his perception of him.

6. Describe Chinaski's view of humanity.

7. Describe the message Bukowski presents in "Darkness."

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

9. Which poem expresses a counterpoint of an indulgent and listless life?

10. Which poems best reflect Chinaski's connection to generations of artists preceding him and why?

(see the answer keys)

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