49 pages 1 hour read

Jeanette Winterson

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985

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Essay Topics

1.

Content Warning: This section discusses anti-LGBTQIA+ bias and abuse.

Compare and contrast the differences between Jeanette’s relationship with Melanie and her relationship with Katy. How does she incorporate lessons learned from her relationship with Melanie into her relationship with Katy?

2.

Oranges play an important part in the novel. Find three instances that an orange is mentioned and analyze its purpose in the plot. What does it represent? How does it impact the characters?

3.

The impact of religion on family is a strong theme in Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit. How does Jeanette’s mother’s involvement with the church impact her relationship with Jeanette in both positive and negative ways?