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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. Chinaski consoles himself that many men become which of the following over time?
(a) Unhealthier.
(b) Saner.
(c) Smarter.
(d) Crazier.

2. In "The Beautiful Lady Editor," who writes to Chinaski telling him he deserves to be miserable?
(a) His ex-wife.
(b) His mother.
(c) His father.
(d) The editor.

3. What is Li Po's occupation?
(a) Laborer.
(b) Poet.
(c) Painter.
(d) Doctor.

4. Which is Bukowski's essential argument in "Fractional Note"?
(a) The real world does not exist.
(b) There is no reason for faith.
(c) Love does not exist.
(d) There are no certainties.

5. Where is Chinaski in "Not Listed"?
(a) Cafe.
(b) Diner.
(c) Gym.
(d) Track.

Short Answer Questions

1. In "Over Done," why does Chinaski not enjoy the company of his old acquaintance?

2. Which of the following is the name of one of the women in "Those Girls We Followed Home"?

3. In "Invasion," what kind of animal does Chinaski see in his doorway?

4. Whom does Chinaski ogle in "Concrete"?

5. Which of the following describes the woman in "The Lady in the Castle"?

Short Essay Questions

1. How and why does Chinaski focus on domestic life in some of the poems?

2. Describe Chinaski's thought process in "Everybody Talks Too Much."

3. How does Chinaski focus on the hidden horrors of life?

4. What common theme runs through the poems "Practice," "My Buddy," John Edgar Webb," and "Love Poem to a Stripper"?

5. Describe Bukowski's portrayal of populism in his poems.

6. How does Bukowski use gallows humor and vaudeville in his poems?

7. Describe the events in the poem "The Boil."

8. Describe Chinaski's feelings for the woman in "The Beautiful Lady Editor."

9. How does Chinaski feel about the beautiful lady editor?

10. How are "Hard Times" and "Concrete" juxtaposed?

(see the answer keys)

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