Wringer

Explore Palmer’s relationships with Dorothy and the Beans Boys. How are these relationships different? What is at the center of each relationship? And what is the ultimate effect of each relationship on Palmer?

Why does Palmer tell Dorothy about Nipper? How is this a turning point in Palmer’s life? Use textual evidence to support your answer.

Tradition is a major theme in the novel. What are the two main traditions in Palmer’s town? How does Palmer’s relationship to these traditions change over the course of the novel? What does this change say about Palmer’s character? Use textual evidence to support your ideas.

Explore the symbolism of the toy soldiers. What do they represent for Palmer? Think about why he once reveres them but ultimately buries them. What causes this change of heart in Palmer?

Nipper is a major catalyst in Palmer’s life. Explore the role of Nipper in Palmer’s life. How does Palmer change because of their friendship?

Explore the role of Palmer’s mother and father. How does his father initially support tradition? How does his mother defy it? And why does his father have a change of heart in the end?

War imagery is used often throughout the novel. Why do you think this is? Find specific examples of war imagery in the text and explore what commentary is being made. Who is at war? Think specifically about why Palmer likens himself to a soldier.

Palmer often thinks one thing but does another, demonstrating a lack of self-agency. What ultimately causes Palmer to finally take action and stand up for his beliefs? Pinpoint the inciting event, and then explore the implications of this action. How is his life different afterwards?