Discuss Laurence's need to make things hard on himself and his belief that good and meaningful work can only be done in remote areas, under conditions of great hardship and sacrifice.

Both Frank's and Laurence's "defining moments" are traumatic. Discuss the parallels between the two. Discuss how a jarring reality has seemingly different effects on both of their lives.

Frank deceives people as a way of life. Why is he so indignant at the thought of someone deceiving him, such as when Maria asks him for money or when Valerie retracts her statement that his father is ill?

Why does Frank think everyone else has to disclose themselves to him, but he refuses to disclose himself to anyone?

Why does Laurence feel the need to repeatedly profess his friendship to Frank?

In what ways are Frank and Laurence opposite of one another? In what...