Sometimes a Great Notion

The Stamper men have a reputation for being fiercely independent. Yet Viv and Myra are equally independent in their own ways. How does the women’s independence differ from that of the Stamper men? How is it similar?

Choose one of the minor characters from the novel, like Rod, Ray, Simone, Draeger, or Eggleston. What does this character contribute to the novel? What key themes does this character illuminate?

Indian Jenny is a minor character in Kesey’s novel, but she emerges at critical moments. Why do you think the novel ends with her perspective? What does her character represent within the novel as a whole?

Sometimes a Great Notion features numerous characters’ perspectives, sometimes blending them together in a single paragraph. In addition, scenes sometimes cut rapidly from one to the next. What is the effect of the novel’s style and structure? How does it illuminate the novel’s themes?

The title of Kesey’s novel is from “Goodnight, Irene” a song by Leadbelly: “Sometimes I take a great notion / to jump in the river an’ drown.” Research the song and consider how its lyrics might relate to or be an inspiration for Sometimes a Great Notion.

The struggles between working class unions and industry are often political. What are the politics of Kesey’s novel? Use textual evidence to support your answer.

How does wilderness exemplify the novel’s themes? What does it illuminate about the lives of the novel’s characters?

Discuss the circular structure of the novel, which ends with its opening scenes. How does the ending make readers see its earlier sections in a new way?