In the Prologue, Bragg explains the significance of the saying, “the big fish won’t bite on a bluebird day” (18). How is the significance of this quote realized throughout the book?

The idea of masculinity and what it means to be a man is a major theme throughout the book. How does Charlie define what it means to be a man? Use at least two examples from the book.

The transition from the old South to the new South is a major theme throughout the book. How does Charlie’s way of life represent key components of the old South, and how do the changes implemented by the new South affect him and others like him?