White Noise

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985

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Summary

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-8

Part 1, Chapters 9-14

Part 1, Chapters 15-20

Part 2, Chapter 21

Part 3, Chapters 22-26

Part 3, Chapters 27-33

Part 3, Chapters 34-40

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Throughout the novel, Jack expresses deep antipathy toward plots. What does he mean by “plots,” and why does he hate them so intensely? What steps does he take to avoid engaging in them?

What role does Babette play in Jack’s happiness and well-being? Why does Jack consider her a more suitable life-partner than his ex-wives? How does his perspective on Babette change throughout the novel?

Why is Jack attracted to Hitler as a scholarly pursuit? What does Hitler mean to Jack both personally and professionally?