Discuss the wall mural that Birkin so painstakingly recovers from centuries of neglect. How does that process parallel his emotional and spiritual recovery? How do you relate the topic of the Final Judgment to Birkin’s emotional distress?

Is this a religious novel? Do its themes and symbols rely on religion to give them meaning? Take into consideration the two families, the Keaches and the Ellerbecks, and how they represent two different churches (the Wesleyans and the High Church), and the backstory that Moon uncovers about Piers Hebron and his conflict between Christianity and Islam. Birkin says he is an atheist, but does he reveal moments when perhaps he is fooling himself? Research the hymns that come to play a part in his redemption. Is Birkin saved?

Research the Battle of Passchendaele and its importance to both World War One and the concept of warfare in the new century. In addition, research the perilous position of signaler, Birkin’s job on the battlefield. How does that position symbolically reflect Birkin’s vulnerability in war and underscore the novel’s larger theme that communication is essential?