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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through "Some Women," "The Long Distance Runner," "Last Words" Part I.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In "Long Distance Runner," what word does Didion say Richardson often used when describing work?
(a) Serene.
(b) Magic.
(c) Holy.
(d) Impossible.

2. In "Some Women," what does Robert Mapplethorpe say is present in the way he arranges things for his photo shoots?
(a) His catholic upbringing.
(b) His obsessive nature.
(c) His laid back attitude.
(d) His controlling parents.

3. Where in Las Vegas is the reunion Joan attends in "Fathers, Sons, Screaming Eagles"located?
(a) El Cortez.
(b) Caesar's Palace.
(c) Stardust Casino.
(d) Stargazers Casino.

4. What does Didion note that meeting attendees have an unusual knack for in "Getting Serenity"?
(a) Making cake.
(b) Dates and numbers.
(c) Smoking constantly.
(d) Finishing each other's sentences.

5. Who is signed as the Director of Admissions on the rejection letter Joan Didion discusses in "On Being Unchosen by the College of One's Choice"?
(a) Rixford K. Snyder.
(b) Rex P. Smith.
(c) Redford K. Barboza.
(d) Robert J. Snider.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which friend of Hemingway and his wife does Didion mention at the start of "Last Words"?

2. In "Why I Write," what does Didion say she "plays by ear" (44)?

3. What does Didion say she associates that word serenity with in "Getting Serenity"?

4. What style of writing does Didion compare Alicia's underground piece to in "Alicia and the Underground Press"?

5. In "Telling Stories," what Hemingway short story does Didion mention as an example of a writer's "absolute control" (54)?

(see the answer key)

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