The Secrets We Kept

The author uses crossed-out names in the chapter titles. What effect does this have on the text? Does this stylistic choice inform or develop any of the novel’s key themes or symbols? How so?

Examine the use of poems and excerpts from Doctor Zhivago in this book. How do these passages inform the scene in which they occur? What is the significance of including these literary references in those moments?

Olga writes her story addressed to Anatoli Semionov, not to Boris or her children. What inspired this choice, and why is it significant? Cite specific things she writes to support your answer.

Analyze the novel’s depiction of women in the “East” and “West” sections. How do these depictions inform the novel’s arguments about gender and sexuality? Are there any differences? If so, cite examples and explain. If not, point out the similarities.

Discuss the characterization of Irina’s mother. Why did Irina learn of her generosity only after her death?

Explain Irina’s motivation in accepting Teddy’s proposal. Why does she initially accept, why does she break off their engagement, and how do these choices relate to the novel’s arguments about social norms, gender, and sexuality? Cite evidence from the text to support your answer.

Compare Olga’s and Irina’s mothers as maternal figures. What forces have shaped them and their relationships with their children?

What do the chapters of the typists add to the story? Why is the narrator of those chapters never named?