The Second Coming

Analyze the concept of living death in the novel. What does Will associate with living death? Why are these aspects of life meaningless?

How does Walker Percy portray the Episcopal church in this novel? Why does the charitable work of the church not fulfill Will’s need for a sense of purpose?

What is the role of humor in this novel? Why do you think Percy blends a serious plotline with moments of comedy? Consider how this use of humor plays into the absurdity associated with modern life.