1. Explain why does Rivers think that writing is therapeutic for Sassoon? Explain what is the role of poetry for the individual and society during war?
2. Sassoon and Owens have two contrasting views on poetry. Describe what they are. Do you think these are metaphors for their respective sights about the war?
3. Explain how does Wilfred Owen's approach to the writing of poetry modify due to this interactions with Sassoon?
4. Explain how are the pacifists Ottoline Morrell and Bertrand Russell portrayed in the book? Does Rivers see their power on Sassoon as a positive or a negative? Why?
5. Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome or severe traumatic stress plays or shell shock an important role in the novel. Explain why do you think each patient's case has been chosen? Explain what are the symptoms that are manifested by the patients? Explain how does class standing impact symptoms according to Rivers?
6. Explain how did Sassoon earn the nickname "Mad Jack" in the war?