The List

Describe the relationship between John Noa and Benjamin. How did it begin, why did it change, and how does it end? Why is Noa so shocked that Benjamin betrayed him?

Discuss the similarities between John Noa and the city of Ark, and the biblical story of Noah and the Ark that he built to escape the flood. What purpose does this allusion serve the larger plot?

Noa makes art illegal in Ark. In what ways can art be a subversive tool? Does art always a message or an argument, even one unknown to the artist? Is it possible for art to exist purely for pleasure and/or entertainment? How would you make that distinction? Why is that distinction not possible in Ark?

Why does John Noa believe that words are the root of all evil? In what ways, if any, is his plan to destroy language for the benefit of Ark rational? In what ways is it irrational?

Amelia Deer has two sisters, and one of them turns out to be Letta’s mother. Each of the three sisters plays a significant role in Letta’s life. How do Amelia, Leyla, and Freya each influence Letta’s actions and views?

The gavvers are Noa’s enforcers and are shown carrying out the most violent tasks in the novel. However, Noa speaks of the Green Warriors as if they are more critical to his success, despite there being little explanation of who they are and how they function. What was your impression of the Green Warriors? What purpose do they serve in the story?

What is the significance of the Creators retaining their belief in partnerships based on love, rather than arranged pairings? How do Marlo’s actions and words towards Letta reflect the Creators’ perspective?

Why does Letta enjoy being a wordsmith at the beginning of the story? How does her enjoyment of her job change by the end? How does she react when she realizes that she was helping to destroy language, not to preserve it?