Consider the role of the beach as both a literal place and a metaphor. To what extent is it necessary to physically get away from one’s ordinary environment to find inner peace? Provide examples from the book and from your life experiences to support your answer.

To what extent is the ideal “argonauta” relationship possible within contemporary Western culture? What are the factors that encourage or hinder its development?

Consider Lindbergh’s discussion of solitude in Gift from the Sea. Is the greatest reason people tend to flee from solitude the social stigma attached to being alone or the pain that results from being separated from a loved one? Has the development of social media affected this issue?