Essay Questions

How are Stella and Louie compared in the text?

Stella and Louie are both similar characters, in the sense that they are both lonely and feel a sense of dislocation. Their lives have both been affected dramatically by the war, with Stella even having no permanent place to stay. Both women are also presented as being loyal and dedicated, sacrificing their own interests for their relationships.

How is the love triangle between Robert, Harrison, and Stella central to the plot?

The love triangle between Robert, Harrison, and Stella is central to the plot. Both men love Stella, with Harrison having been in love with her for years. When he discovers she has moved on with Robert, he gets jealous and threatens Stella, telling her that he will report her new partner as a spy if she doesn't leave him. As such, the plot centers around this love triangle, as Stella must find a way to appease both men with as little drama as possible.

How does the novel show the consequences of war?

Through skillful characterization, Bowen explores the terrible consequences of warfare on people's lives. This novel is set during the Second World War and focuses mostly on the effect of war on the home front. Bowen avoids exploring the violence of warfare, and instead focuses on the human aspects, including isolation, loneliness, and a general feeling of dislocation and displacement among British citizens.