Ironweed

How does Francis’s affair with Katrina change him? Which of her philosophies and ideas does he take to heart and which ones does he seem to reject? How can you tell?

Imagine that Francis is being tried for his crimes in a court of law, and you are the prosecuting attorney: what evidence from the novel could you use to convince the judge and jury to set a harsh punishment? Then switch sides: how might you defend Francis, minimizing his responsibility? Explain which side you find most persuasive, and why.

Readers have interpreted the ending of the novel in multiple ways, with some claiming that Francis does go home and others inferring that he only imagines or envisions doing so. Which interpretation do you favor, and why? What reasons might Kennedy have had for maintaining ambiguity?

Helen and Francis both consider themselves to be Catholics, yet faith means something different to each of them. Compare and contrast the religious views and behaviors of Helen and Francis: which aspects of Catholicism does each find most and least meaningful? How can you tell?

Kennedy could have had Francis merely reflect on his past mistakes through flashbacks or similar means. Instead, he includes ghosts as vivid manifestations of key figures from Francis’s past. How does the presence of these ghosts enhance Kennedy’s storytelling?

As raiders initiate a violent assault at the hobo jungle, Rudy asks Francis, “Who are they?” and “Why they doin’ this?” (217). Consider those same questions in the context of violence of any kind perpetrated against the homeless throughout the entire novel: what forms of violence are perpetrated, by whom, and with what justifications?

Annie, Billy, and Peggy each respond differently to Francis’s homecoming. Compare their responses, as well as the ways in which Francis interacts with each of them: what does your analysis reveal about Francis, his family members, and the potential for their relationship going forward?

Music plays a significant role in Helen’s life. She performs a song called “He’s My Pal” at Oscar’s bar and later listens to and quotes vocal music by both Beethoven and Schubert, along with the Christian hymn, “Te Deum.” Investigate the suitability of these allusions: what reasons might Helen have for turning to each piece when she does? What about them does she find relevant?