You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty

All the artists and musicians referenced in the novel are real. Pick one you are not familiar with and research their work. Consider why Feyi might find this creator influential to her own artistic journey.

The idea of working with blood is one that Akwaeke Emezi herself embraces in her own art as a reference to rituals that existed before colonization. How does Feyi use it differently, and what are some other things blood might symbolize for Feyi in this text?

Both Feyi and Alim express themselves through color. What does color in general symbolize for the characters? Is there a specific color other than red that seems to have more significance than others? Explain your ideas.

The title of the novel is taken from the song “Hunger” by Florence and the Machine. Find the lyrics to the song and explain how they relate to the characters or themes of the book.

To Feyi, both Alim and Pooja seem to radiate presence. Pooja herself expresses that she “likes things to take up space” (223). What does Pooja mean by this, and what does it mean to Feyi when she sees this trait in others?

Joy functions as Feyi’s main support system, but she also serves to highlight the personality traits of the protagonist. What are some contrasting personality traits of Joy and Feyi? What are scenes or conversations that show these differences? What characteristics or themes are expressed through Joy’s relationship with Feyi that would be missing if Joy were not there?

Milan is a minor character in the book, and yet he starts and ends the novel. What is the function of this character, and how does he influence Feyi’s journey?

The theme of The Importance of Friendship is obvious in Feyi and Joy’s relationship. With what other characters and scenes is this theme shown? What does the novel imply about the role of friendship in modern life?