When the narrator and Justine have had sex for the first time, Justine goes to Melissa's dressing table and sweeps all her possessions off the counter. What is the symbolic significance of this action? What do the narrator and Justine actually do? Do Justine and the narrator take responsibility for their actions? Should they have?

Melissa is shy and somewhat awkward in some situations. Describe at least two scenes in which Melissa's shyness makes an impact on the narrator. What does Melissa do for a living? Describe Melissa's reaction to stressful situations. Does she love the narrator? Does the narrator seems to return that love?

Who is Balthazar? Mnemjian? Clea? What are the roles each plays in the lives of the narrator?

Describe the attitudes of hurt that bring Melissa and Nessim together. How do they come together physically? What is the result of...