To Paradise

David Bingham likes and respects Charles Griffith, even though he does not want to marry him. How do Charles’s kind and gentle character impact the development of the plot? If Charles were less likable, would David’s decision have been easier? Why is David unable to see a future with Charles, even though the two men get along well?

David Bingham chooses to trust Edward’s claims about his past instead of the information that his grandfather’s investigator uncovered. Is he justified in this decision? If Edward is telling the truth, why do these discrepancies exist? Does David still doubt Edward when he chooses to leave New York with him? Is Edward’s character the most important factor in David’s decision to leave his home?

The action in Book 2, Part 1 takes place over two days, spanning Peter’s goodbye party and the events of the following morning. How does the party create opportunities to develop Charles and David’s characters and their relationship? How does Peter’s impending death connect to themes from David’s past and Wika’s narrative? Why do you think David delays reading the letter from his grandmother until after the party is over?