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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. Wallace explains that despite Joyce's youthful appearance, he wears a ______ expression on his face while playing.

2. How does the porter react to Wallace carrying his own bag?

3. Wallace uses Borg as an example of ________ tennis style.

4. What does Wallace observe the passengers on the cruise feel the need to justify?

5. Other than tennis, what does Joyce enjoy?

Short Essay Questions

1. When does Wallace suddenly become dissatisfied with the standards of his cruise ship? Why does this happen?

2. How does Wallace feel about his Celebrity Cruise assignment?

3. Why does Wallace time his absences from his cabin?

4. Does Lynch's ex-wife have any role in the film? What is her relation to "Lost Highway"?

5. Why does Wallace ultimately spend most of his time alone on the ship?

6. Why doesn't Wallace participate in many of the activities on the ship?

7. Why doesn't Wallace leave his cabin on the cruise ship?

8. In terms of irony, why does Wallace appreciate Lynch's films?

9. Does Wallace enjoy ordering room service on the cruise ship? Why or why not?

10. Does Wallace get seasick? Why or why not?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Wallace often addresses his Midwestern roots in his essays, implying that the Midwest has shaped him in some way. Discuss how the Midwest has shaped Wallace and the way it is reflected in his writing.

Essay Topic 2

In the essay "Getting Away From pretty Much Being Away From It All," Wallace is on assignment in his home state of Illinois. Through his exploration of the State Fair, Wallace's Eastern and Midwestern identities are brought into question and clashes between the two arise. Discuss what Wallace finds about himself and the regions as being a once native, now outsider.

Essay Topic 3

Identity is a reoccurring them throughout Wallace's experiences. Identity crisis is a primary theme of "Lost Highway," as well as what causes him great distress in discovering his own. Discuss Wallace's commentary on one's identity.

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