The Diamond Eye

How are Kostia and Mila similar, and what makes them effective as both sniper partners and a romantic couple?

In what way does Mila’s relationship with Lyonya depend on him coming to appreciate her struggles with sexism?

How do Mila’s changing responses to Alexei indicate her character’s growth and evolution?

How do friendship and camaraderie reveal truths about the characters and the nature of war?

In what ways are American and Soviet sexism fundamentally similar?

How does Mila use others’ stereotypes about her gender, or her morality, to her advantage?

In what way is The Diamond Eye a story about coming to terms with grief and loss?

Consider Mila’s nickname, “Lady Death.” How does her relationship to it change throughout the text, and what does this reveal about her character?