Prince of Tides

How does Conroy use animals and other natural objects as powerful symbols in the text? Discuss at least three such instances from the novel.

Tom calls Lila “a warrior of inalienable talents.” Why do you think he refers to his mother as a warrior? Is that how you would describe Lila? Would you consider Lila a positive or a negative character?

Tom and Savannah often clash over gender. The motif of gendered norms recurs through the text. Why do you think Tom and Savannah view feminism and gender issues differently? Do you think Lila’s treatment of her sons versus her daughter plays a part in Savannah’s views? Is the world different for Tom and Savannah?

Using the example of Benji Washington’s introduction into Colleton High School, discuss the racial politics of Tom and the novel. Do you agree with Tom’s view of race relations?

Why does Tom say that more than Henry’s beatings, “it was the irrationality of my father’s nature that was even worse”? Using examples from the text, discuss Henry's toxic effect on his children.

Savannah’s healing begins as Tom reveals their whole story. What does this say about the power of telling the truth and the perils of deception?

Explore the significance of the novel’s title, focusing on the story of Luke Wingo.

Is Susan Lowenstein a well-rounded character? Does she fit Tom’s perception of a psychiatrist, an upper-class woman, and a New Yorker? Why does she tolerate her husband’s mistreatment of her son? Using these pointers, analyze Susan’s character.