Discuss how the weather and the climate - the blizzard at the beginning, the cold and snowy winter of much of the middle section, and the thaw of the spring as the novel concludes - metaphorically and symbolically reflects the state of being of the various characters.

Discuss how the portrayals of Truitt and Catherine in the first two chapters set up both the conflict to come and the essential similarities between their experiences and their journeys of transformation.

What parallels, similarities, and/or differences are there in the pasts of Catherine and Truitt? In what ways do those pasts have similar effects on the presents of both characters?

What do you think are the reasons and meanings behind the author's portrayal of the similarities between Truitt, Antonio, and Catherine. What do you think he is saying about the nature and function of sexual...