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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Commentary, Lines 1-4: I was the shadow of the waxwing slain, etc. through Line 70: the new TV.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. John Shade gives a lecture on what in Canto Three?
(a) Poetry.
(b) Zembla.
(c) Birds.
(d) Death.

2. Who raises John Shade during his childhood?
(a) His father.
(b) His mother.
(c) His aunt.
(d) Dr. Sutton.

3. Kinbote is steadfast in his assertion that "Pale Fire" was intended to be how many lines long?
(a) 1000.
(b) 166.
(c) 999.
(d) 334.

4. What animal did Shade's parents study?
(a) Beavers.
(b) Bats.
(c) Birds.
(d) Bears.

5. Which of the following best describes John Shade's idea of life on earth?
(a) Sad and cold.
(b) Dark and painful.
(c) Colorful and bright.
(d) Meaningless and random.

Short Answer Questions

1. The phrase "pale fire" is used in the foreword to describe what?

2. When did John Shade meet his wife?

3. Which pair best describe the prominent motifs of the first Canto?

4. On what day did John Shade begin composing his poem "Pale Fire?"

5. What are the two most important things in Shade's life?

(see the answer key)

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