Miss Lonelyhearts

Nathanael West

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Study Questions and Essay Topics

Study Questions

Discuss Miss Lonelyhearts's frustrations as a writer.


What is the role of the speakeasy in Miss Lonelyhearts's life?


Sex figures prominently in Miss Lonelyhearts, especially as a weapon. Discuss.


Suggested Essay Topics

Discuss the significance of stones and rocks in Miss Lonelyhearts.

How do Miss Lonelyhearts's preoccupations with order coincide with his views on religion? Note Betty's status as a symbol of order to him.

How does Miss Lonelyhearts react to grotesques? Consider especially when he meets grotesques or the innocent face-to-face.

Does West romanticize the country? Or does he critique the underside of the pastoral world?

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