Something Wilder

Craft an argument that analyzes the narrative, symbolic, and thematic resonances of the novel’s central treasure hunt. What is the significance of this adventure to each of the characters? What is the significance of the codes and puzzles they solve along the way?

Analyze the relationship between the novel’s thematic explorations and its point-of-view choices. Consider the effects of the third-person narration and how the novel’s trajectory and examinations would differ if the author had used a different point of view.

Analyze the role of weather patterns and environmental descriptions to the novel’s central conflicts and themes. How do the characters’ surroundings relate to or impact their internal experiences? Consider what rain, hail, heat, and cold say about the characters’ emotions. How would these examinations differ if the characters’ surroundings were different?

Compare and contrast Lily and Leo’s relationship in the past to their relationship in the present. How and why has their dynamic changed? What challenges do these disparities between their past and present dynamics create between them, and why?

Is Lily a dynamic character in this novel? Why or why not? How does she change, and what experiences help her do so? If she does not change, cite specific examples and explore why.

Analyze the role of Lily’s friendship with Nicole to her understanding of self. Consider how the friends met and how they relate to each other in the present. How does this friendship play into Lily’s concept of the future? Without Nicole, would Lily be a different person?

Compare and contrast Lily’s and Leo’s encounters with trauma. What losses, disappointments, or difficulties have they experienced in their personal lives? How have these traumatic experiences affected them in different or similar ways?

Analyze the narrative function of the novel’s antagonistic characters, including Terry, Bradley, Kevin, and Jay. How might they be narrative devices used to dictate the protagonists’ journeys? How would the plot evolve differently without them?