Holden is a righteous idealist in a morally gray world that continually challenges his values. For example, he has no qualms about gunning down a scientist armed only with a knife, yet he vehemently disagrees with Miller’s choice to kill Dresden. How do these seemingly disparate reactions reflect Holden’s moral compass, the ethical complexities of the setting, and the overarching themes of justice and vengeance?

Examine the romantic relationship between Holden and Naomi, from Naomi’s initial rejection of Holden despite having past feelings to later inviting him home. What inspires this shift? Is their relationship founded on attraction and affection, or is it grounded in other elements such as mutual respect, shared experiences, or situational dependence? How does this portrayal of their romance contribute to the novel’s exploration of human connections and interpersonal dynamics?

Analyze the depiction of socioeconomic inequity in the book. How do the authors establish that there is inequality in the solar system, and how does this depiction of racism and class discrimination compare to society today? What message does this suggest about human development over millennia?