Each question has two parts: questions about what can be found in the book and how the poems work; and questions about how the reader might feel about the topics covered in the book.
- How are aspects of Mars and space exploration used as metaphors in the book? Would human nature change on another planet?
- How are feelings of the human body used to describe spiritual dislocation? Are feelings and instinct useful in deciphering the mysteries of our world?
- What aspects of nature and Earth are used to describe the sublime? What would you miss if you left Earth forever?
- How are ideas of physics used to describe relationships and love? Is there a science to our feelings of love and connection with other human beings?
- Which characters in the book long for home? What does the word home mean to you?
- How is humor used to express melancholy and regret? How can humor work to access the essential nature of sorrow?
- In what ways do the Earthlings in the book behave in childish ways? What does it mean to behave like an adult?
- How do these poems connect science and mathematics with God? What is your idea of God?
- How are poets depicted in this book? What is a poet’s function in modern society?
- Why do photographers commit suicide?