10. The epigraph and various passages in the book allude to the feeling of being somehow ill suited for this world or at odds with one’s own existence. In what ways do you believe this dynamic factored into the story?

11. Much of the novel takes place over the course of three days—yet time moves differently toward the end, and even jumps into the future, beyond the island. Discuss why you think the author may have chosen to do this, and what are its effects on the narrative and on the emotional arc of the novel?

12. The epilogue includes this phrase: “in one instant the universe gave up all its secrets, showed its full hand, pulled back the curtain, and laid itself bare right before me.” What do you believe this is referring to?