As the novel begins, Phil waits for George to recognize that it is the silver anniversary of their first cattle drive together. When George does not mention it, Phil becomes frustrated. Why do you think this is the case? What does this say about Phil’s personality?

Alcohol plays an important role in the novel. Examine what mechanisms are at play for both Johnny and Rose’s addiction to alcohol.

When Peter is young, he wanders off to sit and contemplate the river and the moon. How does his mysterious personality effect how the reader perceives him as a character? Does he change as the story unfolds, or does he remain an enigma?