Discuss Rita Cohen's character. There is some mention as to whether she is real. How does her final letter to Swede contrast with their final conversation?

Is Swede to blame for Merry's radicalism? Is Dawn to blame?

What did Merry want that she was not getting from life?

What significance does the Count play in the story?

Compare and contrast Jerry Levov with Swede Levov. Why were they different and in what ways?

Describe Sheila Salzman. Why did she have an affair with Swede?

How do Bill and Jessie Orcutt represent the main theme of the story?

Is racism an issue in this story? If so, how?

Why does Swede go on for hours about glovemaking when he meets Rita Cohen for the first time?

In what ways does social status affect the plot of the story?