Discuss the symbolic relationship between rain and the events of the narrative. What does rain symbolize? How does it relate to the experiences of the characters? In this context, also consider references to dryness - in particular, the title to chapter fourteen and how it metaphorically relates to that chapter's content.

Do you agree with the quote from p. 225? Why or why not?

Discuss the parallels (in situation, in action, and in reaction) between the experiences and attitudes of the unnamed Boy, Mr., Richard Makutsi, and the Government Man.

Consider the titles of the various chapters. The meanings of many (such as, for example, chapter two) are fairly straightforward. Others, however, are more metaphorical and/or thematically evocative. Discuss which chapter titles fall into the former category and which fall into the latter, commenting briefly on the metaphorical relationship between the title in question...