The roles we take on in life are often not what we thought they would be - this is especially the case for many of the female characters in this novel.

Part 1 - List three characters in this novel who are not in the roles they wish they could be.

Part 2 - For each of the characters, describe what you think they would rather do with their lives. Why?

Part 3 - Does society dictate their roles or are they holding themselves back? Why did you answer the way you did?

Essay Topic 2

In the end, Milkman 'flies' off into a chasm, but it's not certain what happens after that. Following in his great grandfather's footsteps, it seems Milkman wants to make a leap as well.

Part 1 - Why do you think Milkman decided to leap off into the chasm? What was his motivation?

Part 2 - Do you think Milkman actually flew at the end of the story? Or perhaps you think it was a figurative flight? Explain your answer.

Part 3 - What do you think happens to Guitar after this scene? What does he do when he can not kill Milkman as he planned?

Essay Topic 3

The attempt to fly is just one of the ways Morrison symbolizes the characters' need to escape from their conditions.

Part 1 - Describe the opening scene with Robert Smith and why he decided he wanted to fly away.

Part 2 - What is the significance of the story of Solomon the Flying Man? What does it mean for the rest of the characters?

Part 3 - Why do you think Milkman decides to fly as well at the end of the story? Is it a sign that he has given up or is it a sign of strength? Support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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