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Book Club Discussion Questions 

Part One

What, if any, is the significance of Jamie’s birth date, the Ides of March?

 What is the meaning behind the homeless man's advice "an Irishman who leaves Ireland can never go home again."

What are some of the common themes or philosophies presented by Devlin, Jamie and other "older" Irishmen we meet in the story?

 Why do you think Lucien Broughton causes "icy" feelings in everyone he contacts? Who in the story is compared to heat in contrast?

 Is there any significance to Pat not speaking until quite late as a child?

Part Two

 What do you think Pamela hoped to accomplish by inviting Lucien Broughton to the dinner party? What does the Reverend gain by accepting?

 Why, do you think, did the photographer give his camera to Pamela?

 What, if anything, do we learn about the brothers Riordan in this chapter? Their differences or similarities.

 Do you see any comparison between the “Ward Bosses” to Celt Chiefs?

 Who do you think the truth telling has the biggest impact on: Casey, Pamela or Pat?

  Brian had left a bag and letter for Father Terry. He believes that Brian “remembered” and “tried to apologize”. What would Brian have remembered and why would he need to apologize?

 Part Three

 What do you think prompted Jamie to "get off the fence" both politically and emotionally?

 Casey draws a comparison between Jamie Kirkpatrick and Orczy's The Scarlet Pimpernel. What similarities do you see?

 Money takes on several meanings in the chapter ‘Lover, Make Me Forget’. What are they?

 Why does the Rev. save Pamela? Why not let her die with the constable? Do you think the Rev. is now working alone?

General Question

 What do you think some of the forces in place were which led to protests around the Western world during the late 60s? Were there any conditions specific to Ireland that led to the uprisings happening at this point in time?