The Light We Lost

Lucy discusses the idea that a person’s perspective can impact the way they view a situation. How is this relevant to the plot? How does it change Lucy’s reliability as a narrator? Give examples from the novel of this issue with perspective.

Lucy and Gabe meet on September 11, 2001. How does this day shape their first meeting? How does it impact their overall relationship? What continuing influence does September 11, 2001 have on Gabe and Lucy’s lives separate from their relationship?

Kate describes to Lucy a scale based on types of fire that can be used to rate relationships with men. What is this scale? How does it relate to a romantic relationship? Where are Gabe and Darren on the scale? Does their position on the scale change as Lucy’s perspective changes?

An important theme of this novel is Finding Light in Darkness. Light and darkness are often mentioned by several characters, but most noticeably by Gabe and Lucy when they describe each other. In what way do light and darkness describe each character? How does this description change throughout the novel? How does the setting influence this imagery?

In the beginning of the novel, Gabe and Lucy often discuss dreams and making a difference in the world. How does the pursuit of these dreams impact each character’s life? In the end, was pursuing these dreams beneficial or hazardous to each character?

Why does Lucy focus on the question of freewill versus fate during the climactic moments of the novel? In your opinion, is Lucy’s assessment of the question correct when it comes to her relationship with Gabe? If so, what does it say about her character? If not, how might Gabe and Lucy’s life been different if they had the freewill to choose?

Darren plays a larger role in Lucy’s everyday life than Gabe ever did, yet he is treated as a minor character. Why is that? Does Darren deserve Lucy’s assessment of his shortcomings throughout the novel? To what extent does Gabe’s role in Lucy’s life change her perspective on Darren?

Love triangles are a common trope in romance novels. Using examples from the novel, discuss how this love triangle is unique from and similar to other love triangles in well-known novels, movies, or television shows.