The Wisconsin Drive House

Most of the novel’s action transpires in the Stone’s home on Wisconsin Drive. Christopher’s respective jobs at the British Embassy and bank both pay well, affording the family a comfortable home in an affluent, predominantly white neighborhood. Rebecca and Priscilla develop their friendship in the Wisconsin Drive house, Rebecca inviting Priscilla to attend the parties she frequently hosts there. Rebecca spends a substantial length of time in her kitchen, preparing meals for her family. The television remains on almost perpetually within the Stone’s home. Rebecca’s writing office is also located in the Wisconsin Drive house, and Rebecca writes her most celebrated poems there.

Baltimore, Maryland

A city historically recognized for its revolutionary social activism for racial equality, Baltimore acts as a provocative setting for this novel’s racial conflicts. Rebecca notes the ongoing racial and financial divide within the city...