1. What prompts Linda Ann to look for Big Ray Bronson? Why does she feel the need to question him?

2. How does Linda's relationship with her mother change during the course of this story?

3. What typically artistic characteristics does Linda Ann possess? Contrast these traits with those of her friend, Jeff Breslow.

4. Comment on the significance of the title of this novel.

5. Describe the central conflict in Blues for Silk Garcia. What is its relationship to the theme, or themes?

6. What insights, if any, does this novel provide about performance?

Sociopathology? Jazz?