Why does the author feel the need to introduce Al's bar with the prologue at the beginning of the novel? Is this bar important to the overall plot? How does this prologue affect the overall novel? What other information does this prologue offer that is helpful to the overall plot development? Would the novel be difficult to read without this prologue?

Why does Paul go to Puerto Rico? What does his new job offer him? How does Paul feel about this new job? How does this affect the reader's understanding of Paul's character? Does Paul take the job seriously? How does this new job compare to Paul's past employers?

Discuss Paul's relationship with Yeamon. What impact does Yeamon have on Paul? Does Yeamon teach Paul anything, or is he simply a part of the story to cause trouble for Paul? Why does Yeamon refuse...