Whirligig

What does the whirligig represent for each of the characters who encounter one? How do their interpretations of the whirligig’s meaning relate to Brent and his story?

Brent recalls from English class that a karass is a “a disparate group of people linked together without their knowledge” (48). Why does this thought come to his mind when it does? What are the various instances of karass in Whirligig?

That actions can have far-reaching, unseen, and unintended consequences is a major theme in Whirligig. In what ways do the stories of Brent and the other characters reinforce this idea?

Why does Brent want to learn about stars, shells, birds, and teach himself new skills like playing the harmonica? What role does his new knowledge play in his transformation?

Brent repeatedly says that he is “reborn” and living a “second life.” What does he mean by this? How does his rebirth relate to his guilt, his journey, and his labors at building whirligigs?

What is the significance of Brent finally admitting that he tried to kill himself to the painter? Why does he say it when he does and what effect does the admission have on him?

What do the whirligig manual and the notes of the previous owner represent for Brent? What role does the book play in Brent’s journey and transformation? What does Brent’s loss of it represent?

How does Brent relate to others in the first chapter, in the middle of his journey, and at the end? How do his views of fitting in, solitude, and community change over the course of the book?