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38 pages 1 hour read

Less

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017

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Essay Topics

1.

The novel strives to determine who Arthur Less is. By the end of the novel, who has a better comprehension of the answer: the audience, the narrator, or Less himself?

2.

Freddy’s role as narrator is not revealed until the final chapter. How does Freddy’s point of view influence the narrative? How does his portrayal of Less affect the reader’s perception of his character?

3.

Carlos is introduced as Arthur’s enemy. How is this enmity portrayed in the novel? Is Carlos an antagonist?

4.

Though Robert is important to Less, he remains distant. Which has a bigger impact on Less, Robert’s emotional distance or his physical distance?

5.

The narrative spans multiple countries on several continents. What role does physical travel play in Less’s emotional journey, particularly in a symbolic sense?

6.

What role does literature play in Less’s journey of self-discovery?

7.

Less becomes embroiled in numerous friendship groups and communities. Which of these has the biggest impact on his character?

8.

Does language help or hinder Less’s quest to discover his identity?

9.

Less meets several lovers in the novel. Which of these—apart from Freddy and Robert—has the biggest impact on his life?

10.

Of the many relationships depicted in the novel, which do you consider to be the healthiest? Which is most likely to succeed?

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