Lie Down in Darkness presents a special challenge to discussion leaders.

The best approach to discussing and understanding the novel may be through its characterizations, rather than its structure or style. Milton is an interesting example of a man who seems to have goodness in him but who exercises very poor judgment.

What attracted him to Helen, a nasty woman with a bitter, hateful outlook?

Why do his efforts to make Peyton's life a good one fail? If Peyton is such a smart person, why does she give up on life rather than try to understand her past and come to terms with it? The twisted family life of the Loftises creates opportunities for exploring questions of taking responsibility for one's own life, of what one's responsibilities to the family are, and to what degree a family tragedy is shared by all family members.

1. Are there...