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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. In "Supposedly Famous," Chinaski takes stock of __________.

2. What is the occupation of the subject in "That's Why Funerals Are So Sad"?

3. What is the name of the thief who lives in a boarding house in "Bad Times at the 3rd and Vermont Hotel"?

4. What is the name of the chemistry teacher who molested Chinaski's friend?

5. In "Glenn Miller," Chinaski recalls what kind of shop?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the poem "Together" about?

2. Describe the events of the poem "Stride."

3. How is Chinaski portrayed in "Zero"?

4. What is significant about the poems following "The Master Plan" in terms of imagery?

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

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

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

8. Describe Chinaski's feelings for John Fante.

9. How is the Chinaski of 1986 described?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Assess Bukowski's argument that there are no certainties or essential truths in the world. Support or refute this claim using examples from the text.

Essay Topic 2

Make an argument for or against Bukowski being misogynistic. Use at least three specific pieces of evidence from the text.

Essay Topic 3

Analyze Chinaski's domestic life. Is domestic life portrayed as positive or negative? Is Chinaski's opinion of domestic life genuine? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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