Discuss the significance of the historical setting in which this book was written. How would the story change if it had been set in the 1990's?

Discuss the relationship of Aldred Leith to Helen Driscoll. How would it have developed differently had the book been set ahead twenty years? Fifty years?

Discuss the significance of Roy Rysom. What thematic part did he play?

Discuss the ending to the story with regard to the character of Peter Exley. What do you think will happen to him?

Discuss the significance of Aurora Searle's character to the story.

Discuss the imagery used by the author. Do you believe it contributed to the story or not, and why?