Characterize Ellen's interactions with men. How does she react, and what does she actively do?

Why is Jimmy dissatisfied with his newspaper career?

Compare and contrast Congo's character with Emile's.

Why does Ellen call her husbands John "Jojo" and Jimmy "Jimps"?

Ellen's name changes from Ellie to Elaine. What do these name changes indicate about her or other characters' perceptions?

Stan is the only man whom Ellen loves. Why does she love him? Why does she abort his baby?

Describe the overall impression of New York City that the author conveys.

Select two descriptions that create distinctively different impressions. What poetic techniques, such as metaphor, simile, color, sound and feeling does the author use?

The stories and subplots in the novel are shuffled. How does this technique work or not work to move the stories ahead?

Identify more recent works in the cinema or...