Since Ishiguro's novels are often elliptical and require close reading, attention should be paid to even the most insignificant details and plot elements, which often turn out to resonate strongly in the larger story. General questions for group discussion might concern contrasts between old and new ways of doing and believing, and between England and Japan; questions on memory and the importance of the past to the present also seem to be important in Ishiguro's work.
1. Why does Ono like Mrs. Kawakami's bar?
2. What seems to be significant about Ono's house? How is it used as a symbol in the work?
3. How would you describe or diagram the structure of the book? Does it seem to you to be effective?
4. What is the meaning of the title of.....
