Essay Questions

What is the historic background in the novel?

The action takes place in the 1970s, during a time of extreme social unrest. The Cold War was in full bloom and America was involved heavily in the Vietnam War. Around that time, society's ideals changed and the general idea about the war shited as well. The period was characterized by a lot of uncertainty and pain. Countless American soldiers lost their lives and many families remained without a source of income. The government tried to help the people but they were not successful and a general sense of discontent was rampant. This social unrest is mirrored in the novel as well and there are many allusions made towards the war and the effects it had on the lives of the normal people. The main character grows and develops during this uncertain time and his internal battles can be seen as being caused by the instability surrounding him.

Who were the flower children?

The flower children were those who decided to protest against the American involvement in the Vietnam War. They were characterized often as being hippies and as wanting to overthrow the government. They were not regarded in a positive light by the authorities because they promoted free love, encouraged the use of drugs and often organized rallies and demonstrations against the government. Some of these groups became violent towards the authorities and because of this those who had a known affiliation or were known to sympathize with these groups were put under careful watch. Their families had to suffer as well and if one of their family members had political aspirations they were often cast aside because of their connection with someone seen as a flower child.

How is violence portrayed in the novel?

Violence is portrayed in an extremely positive light. For example, when Holling trips one of his colleagues and makes him fall, he is praised both by teachers and by his peers. The child he tripped ended up hitting his had and needing to be under medical supervision for a few weeks but Holling experienced no consequences. Other violent outbursts from the rest of the characters are also seen as being completely normal and even to be expected. Because of this, violence is never punished in the novel but instead promoted through the actions and behaviors of the rest of the characters.