Peter Matthiessen's fictions ought to provoke lively discussion, in that the issues he recurrently approaches are of real and continuing importance in contemporary America. Although they may take different forms in different novels, questions regarding such issues as the competition of opposed cultures, the relative importance of nature versus culture, and the definition of American civilization, both from within and vis-a-vis others, arise in all his works.

1. Can Matthiessen's portrayal of the Hubens be read as a critique of American Protestant fundamentalism in general? Or is it larger than that, a critique of Christian values and religion more widely regarded?

2. What is the significance of Moon being a "half-breed," and why does he finally turn to one side of that combination?

3. How and on what basis can Martin Quarrier's mission to the natives be differentiated from that of his fellows?

What in his motives and perspective...