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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section 2.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Rilke believe is wrong with sex?
(a) It is not wholly human and is based on temporary emotions.
(b) It goes against Christianity.
(c) It subordinates women.
(d) It distracts the artist from his work.

2. What does Rilke send to the young poet in reply to the poet's first letter?
(a) A volume of Rilke's poetry.
(b) Money.
(c) A letter and the poet's poems.
(d) A list of potential publishers.

3. What does Rilke say about Professor Horacek in his first letter?
(a) That the professor is a great poet.
(b) That the professor is a great scholar.
(c) That the professor helps to nurse Rilke back to health as a boy.
(d) That he holds admiration and gratitude for the professor.

4. How does Rilke say one can know if a poem is good?
(a) If it moves its readers.
(b) If it reflects human nature.
(c) If it helps readers understand life.
(d) If it is inspired by necessity.

5. What does Rilke advise the poet to do in regard to his efforts to get published?
(a) Discontinue his efforts to receive feedback from publishers and other external parties.
(b) Send his poems to the United States.
(c) Send his poems to as many magazines as possible.
(d) Send his poems to Rilke's publisher.

Short Answer Questions

1. If the young poet discovers he should not be a poet, Rilke suggests that his inner examination will not be worthless. Why not?

2. How does Professor Horacek know Rilke?

3. From where is the first letter from Rilke to the young poet postmarked?

4. In the first letter, which of the young poet's pieces does Rilke say demonstrates the most talent?

5. How does Rilke advise the young poet to view sex?

(see the answer key)

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