Consider the novel’s take on single motherhood in 1941. Does the novel approve of Mildred trying to balance work and parenting? Why or why not?

The novel’s male characters are largely self-centered and sexually predatory; its female characters have to manipulate men to achieve what they want. Does this spell doom for an emotionally and intellectually companionate marriage? Why or why not?

Consider Mildred’s relationships with women. How do her interactions with them change during the course of the narrative?