The sharply etched characters in this novel, and its strikingly violent climax, will surely create intense responses on the part of readers. The task in discussion must be to expand upon that initial emotive reaction in ways that will do justice to the ethical and satiric dimensions of the novel. A comparison of the novel to the film McGuane made of it would be an excellent starting point.

1. Is McGuane's vision of an inherent violence in American society realistically accurate? Or does it mimic a pattern of ritualized violence more characteristic of movies than of the world?

2. How much does Skelton subscribe to Dance's principle of manhood based on "credence"? To the extent that he shares it, why are they still enemies, where does this connection between them break down?

3. How do women fare in this novel?

Does the contrast of Jeannie with Miranda form a...