Ford's work—and this novel particularly—is described as an insightful look at contemporary American life, although it often takes a bleak view of the possibilities for happiness. General topics that might be considered for discussion of Ford's work are the strengths and culpabilities of his heroes, his views on the difficulty of relationships, and the accuracy with which he portrays everyday life and the psychological states of his characters.
1. Is Frank Bascombe an admirable character? Why or why not?
2. Does Ford indicate why Frank behaves as he does? What psychological reasons might there be for the behavior and mindset of his character?
3. Does Ford indicate why Paul behaves as he does? Can you propose any solutions to the puzzle of his bizarre behavior?
4. Does the novel have a conventional.....
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