McCarthy's narrative style is often intentionally obscure, making it difficult for the reader to immediately identify which character is involved in a given scene. What is the purpose of this? Is this a good stylistic choice?

What is the significance of the voices John Wesley Rattner heard in the woods? What is the significance of the fact that he never fulfills his promise?

What is the significance of Ownby's phobia of cats? Why did it not seem to apply when he caught the "painter" when he was a younger man?

What is Ownby not named until late in the book, despite his importance throughout the story?

Why does Ownby deface the tank on his property?

What is the significance of Ownby's intention to move to Harrykin?

According to the book's final paragraphs, what exactly does McCarthy (or, at least, the narrator) believe has been...