Cortazar divides his story into two books: "From the Other Side" and "From This SIde." In Book 2, Horacio comments that his life can now be cleanly divided into his time on this side of La Maga and his time on the other side of La Maga. Why is Horacio's relationship with Maga so transformative to him? How is he changed?

Ossip and La Maga describe Horacio as inhuman. Throughout the novel, he is an observer, one who cannot act, prone to moments to circular reasoning that frustrate him immensely. Discuss what Horacio's objective is that draws him to be so antisocial. What does he want? Does his goal justify the pain he causes others?

Compare and contrast Traveler and Horacio. Do they want the same thing out of life? Are their doubts about their live similar? Is Traveler's lack of world experience a strength...