Study Questions
Throughout the "Zooey" section, Bessie keeps mentioning that the painters are coming. Franny and Zooey additionally notice that the new paint smell is sharp, particularly in their parents' bedroom. What significance could this new paint have?
What does Lane Coutell represent for Franny?
What significance might the name "Glass" have?
Discuss the theme of creation and destruction. Which does Franny want out of people? Does she herself create or destroy?
What does the Fat Lady represent? How is she both "everybody" and "Jesus Christ"?
How have the Glass children been affected by having been child stars?
On Seymour and Buddy's wall, Zooey reads, "God instructs the heart, not by ideas but by paints and contradictions." What significance does this quotation have to the story?
Is the "Zooey" section a tale of mysticism or a love story? Also discuss how it might have been the one you do not pick.
Why is it important that Buddy Glass narrates "Zooey"? Why didn't Salinger just start it with Zooey in the bathtub?
Explain the "Jesus prayer" and why Franny wants to try it.
