What I Lived For | Topics for Discussion & Projects

What I Lived For Key Questions

With its graphic sexuality and blunt language, What I Lived For will be embarrassing for some people. Discussion will want to address the issue of whether Oates has been too sensational and too graphic or has achieved a literary aim beneath the novel's raw surface.

1. How does Oates's stream-of-consciousness technique allow you to sympathize or not sympathize with Corky?

How well does she capture the feelings of a man in the throes of alcoholism?

2. How does Corky carry on his father's legacy? Is it an honorable one?

3. Does the novel create a fair portrait of the Irish? Of a particular man of Irish heritage? Why does it include a narrative of Corky's Irish ancestors, Dermott, Joseph, and Gahern Corcoran?

4. What kind of attitude does Corky have towards women? Are there any women to admire in this...
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