Ford's work has been said to be a powerful reflection of American life, although it often takes a bleak view of the possibilities for happiness in the modern world. General topics that might be considered for discussions of Ford's work are the strengths and culpable nature 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. Why does Frank not refer to his ex-wife by name in the novel? Is there some psychological reason that might account for this? Is there a symbolic reason?

3. Does the novel have a conventional antagonist or villain? If not, what provides conflict?

4. Does Ford indicate why Frank behaves as he does? What psychological reasons might there be for the behavior and mind-set of his...