Essay Questions

Why is Bill Gray scared of publishing the book that he has written for over two decades?

Bill is a secretive and secluded man who doe not embrace publicity. He thinks that if he publishes his book, it will lose worth and its extraordinary characteristics. Scott has played a vital role in helping Bill to finalize writing his book, but he is also encouraging him not to publish it because if many people read it, its value will be degraded. The reader finds this ironic because any author intends to get acceptance from readers, an aspect that Bill is despising.

What is the force behind DeLillo’s urge to write the book ‘Mao II’?

The primary reason why DeLillo writes the book 'Mao II' is to warn his readers on the devastating effects of seclusion and lack of confidence. At first, he introduces Bill Gray as an individual who does not want to showcase his talent and capability to the public. Despite taking two decades to write a book, Bill does not want it to be read by people, making one wonder the purpose of his authorship. However, Brita is a symbol of hope in Bill's life because he convinces him to publish his book. DeLillo is trying to communicate that one should not be scared to reap the fruits of his hard labor at whatever cost.

What is the role of Brita in Bill’s life?

From the beginning of the novel, the reader notes that Bill is a lonely man, and his life revolves around Scott, Karen, and writing his book. Bill is not ready to go to the Public, and he does not want to publish his book. Scott is also not encouraging Bill to publish his book because he advises him to lose its value. However, things take a drastic change when Brita arrives. She is a photographer, and she takes the photo of Bill, which later exposes Bill to the Public. Brita also discovers that Bill has a book which he does not want to publish. She encourages Bill to publish his book, to which he agrees. Later, Brita connects Bill to her editor and publisher, who later travels with Bill to London. Therefore, Brita plays a significant role in ending Bill’s seclusion by bringing him into the limelight.