- 1. Ask The Dust by John Fante is a semi-autobiographical novel that tells the poignant story of Arturo Bandini, a young Italian-American writer struggling to find his voice and place in the literary world of 1930s Los Angeles. Against the backdrop of the city’s vibrant yet harsh landscape, the novel explores themes of ambition, love, desperation, and the immigrant experience. Bandini's tumultuous relationship with Camilla Lopez, a beautiful but troubled waitress, serves as a central focus of the narrative, reflecting the complexities of passion and rejection. Fante's raw, visceral prose captures the essence of longing and the artist’s internal battles, resonating with anyone who has ever dared to dream of success and grappled with self-doubt. As Bandini navigates the challenges of poverty and the harsh realities of life, he learns about the cost of his aspirations, ultimately leading readers on a journey that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. First published in 1939, Ask The Dust is celebrated for its lyrical style and its candid portrayal of the struggles inherent in the pursuit of artistic fulfillment.
Who is the protagonist of 'Ask The Dust'?
A) Camilla Lopez B) Henry Miller C) Joe D) Arturo Bandini
- 2. What city does the novel primarily take place in?
A) New York B) Chicago C) Los Angeles D) San Francisco
- 3. What profession does Arturo Bandini aspire to?
A) Actor B) Journalist C) Writer D) Painter
- 4. Who is the love interest of Arturo in the novel?
A) Nina B) Marilyn C) Camilla Lopez D) Mrs. Bandini
- 5. What does Arturo Bandini often struggle with?
A) Fear B) Money C) Laziness D) Trust issues
- 6. Which ethnicity does the character Camilla belong to?
A) Mexican B) Cuban C) Italian D) Spanish
- 7. How does Arturo feel about success?
A) Fearful B) Eager C) Ambivalent D) Disinterested
- 8. What aspect of his life does Arturo romanticize?
A) Poverty B) Wealth C) Success D) Family
- 9. What is Arturo's relationship with his heritage?
A) Indifferent B) Complex C) Shameful D) Proud
- 10. What nationality is Arturo Bandini's family?
A) Italian B) Irish C) Spanish D) Mexican
- 11. What does Arturo primarily struggle with throughout the novel?
A) Identity B) Family C) Fame D) Wealth
- 12. What does the dust symbolize in the novel?
A) Joy B) Despair C) Wealth D) Hope
- 13. In what decade is 'Ask The Dust' set?
A) 1930s B) 1950s C) 1940s D) 1920s
- 14. What does Arturo find troubling about the American lifestyle?
A) Generosity B) Superficiality C) Hard working D) Intelligence
- 15. What year was 'Ask the Dust' first published?
A) 1929 B) 1945 C) 1955 D) 1939
- 16. What major theme is explored in 'Ask the Dust'?
A) Wealth B) Adventure C) Loneliness D) Friendship
- 17. What does Arturo use as an escape?
A) Music B) Travel C) Writing D) Drugs
- 18. What literary movement is Fante often associated with?
A) Realism B) Romanticism C) Surrealism D) Modernism
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