Discuss Pynchon's frequent references to popular culture such as television shows and pop songs. What purpose do the references serve?

Pynchon often includes song lyrics inserted into his prose. How do these lyric sections affect the narrative?

Discuss the Thanatoids. What role does death play in the novel?

Why does Weed Atman become a Thanatoid and Brock Vond does not?

What motivates Frenesi Gates? Why does she betray her friends?

What motivates Brock Vond?

Pynchon shifts fluidly from setting to setting and between characters. Discuss this technique as an effective way to tell a story. What drawbacks might it have?

Paranoia runs deep among Pynchon's characters. Are they justified in their beliefs?