Why does the teacher in the first chapter take Maurice aside? What is this teacher hoping to teach Maurice? Why does Maurice not understand the lesson? How does this lesson make Maurice feel? What does this tell the reader about Maurice? How old is Maurice when this takes place? Could his age have bearing on his reaction?

Why does Maurice feel as though he must pretend to be someone he is not? What is Maurice attempting to hide from his classmates? What is it about Risley that finally makes Maurice feel as though he might reveal himself? How does Maurice feel when he meets Clive Durham? Why does Maurice feel this way? How is Clive Durham like Maurice?

Why does Maurice pretend to be offended when Clive Durham announces his feelings for Maurice? What is Maurice afraid of? Why does Clive Durham not accept...