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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. What does Bukowski ultimately do with the stories he has clipped from the newspapers about his search for Gloria Westhaven?

2. When Cass allows Bukowski to buy her a drink, what does she ask him?

3. What is mandatory in Bukowski's story about the twelve flying monkeys?

4. What concerns Bukowski when he finds himself in the ambulance during "Life and Death in the Charity Ward?"

5. What do Bukowski and Linda enjoy watching in "3 Women?"

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Henry survive after killing Sarah with a hat pin?

2. How does Bukowski find Gloria Westhaven?

3. Describe operations at Joe and Cherry's newspaper.

4. Why does Bukowski blame himself for Cass's suicide?

5. Why does Bukowski throw away the newspaper clippings at the end of "Life in a Texas Whorehouse?"

6. Describe Bukowski's experiences in delivering papers.

7. What is the purpose of the Satisfactory Help Agency?

8. Describe the events that lead up to Tanya's demise.

9. What are the "3 Chickens" and what purpose do they serve in this story?

10. Describe Bukowski's relationship with Vicki.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the themes of hypocrisy and superiority in "Life in a Texas Whorehouse." Develop a clear thesis statement and cite specific examples from the text. Be sure to consider (though not exclusively) Bukowski's search for Gloria and her reactions to his efforts, the woman who lies about being Gloria, and the irony of his stay in the brothel. If necessary, reference some of his other stories that deal with similar themes, such as "The Fuck Machine" and "A Drinking Partner."

Essay Topic 2

Compose an essay about Bukowski's style of writing focusing on either his dialogue, his characterizations, or his ability to evoke a certain mood in a story. Be sure to develop a strong thesis statement around which the essay will be built. Discuss the technical aspects of his style and how it informs the rest of the story, as well as his ability to write himself into his own work. Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Bukowski's relationship with employment in the following format:

Part 1) His job at the post office.

Part 2) His short-term employment with the meat-packing plant and the newspaper.

Part 3) Employment versus gambling.

Part 4) His work in "The White Beard."

Part 5) Employment versus his writing career.

Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

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