Are the main characters in the novel pawns in a great plan, or do they have free will? Is Brin destined to be the third Ohmsford to complete a quest at Allanon's bidding, or does she have the option to refuse? Is Brin destined to be the savior and the destroyer, no matter what choices she makes? Is Jair guaranteed success in his quest to rescue Brin, no matter what? Are all of the evil characters and creatures in the novel pawns of the Ildatch, or do they make their own choices?

What is the wishsong? Why did Wil Ohmsford forbid his children from using the wishsong? Why do Brin and Jair disobey him? How does the power of Brin's wishsong differ from Jair's? How does Brin's understanding of the wishsong change as the novel progresses? Why is Brin reluctant to use the wishsong...