Memory Wall

Describe the temporal structure in “Afterworld” and discuss how that structure contributes to elements of characterization, setting, and theme in the story.

How does “Memory Wall” use plot and subtext to explore the ethical considerations of manipulating memories? What does the story’s tone suggest about its message regarding these ethical implications?

What does the gorgon in “Memory Wall” symbolize? Identify two to three layers of symbolism and discuss how they are interrelated.

In “Procreate, Generate,” both Imogene and Herb repeatedly remind themselves that someone else has it worse. How does this example of repetition develop their characters and support the story’s themes?

Describe how the narrative style and voice in “The River Nemunas” distinguish it from other stories in the collection and what they reveal about Allison’s character.

Discuss the symbolic role of the saddle—a ridge or pass in a mountain range—in “The Demilitarized Zone.” Compare and contrast the story’s use of symbolism in the settings of Idaho versus Korea.

Stories in this collection take different approaches to naming characters. For example, only the protagonist is named in “The Demilitarized Zone,” whereas in “Village 113,” everyone except the protagonist is named. What do these choices reveal about the individual stories and their relationships to each other?

Consider the various styles that Doerr adopts for the stories in this collection. Choose two stories and discuss the effect that the style and tone have on the development of the larger thematic meanings of the collection.