Arlington Park A Novel [Paperback]

Set over the course of one rainy day in a London suburb,ArlingtonParkis a viciously funny portrait of a group of young mothers, each bound to their families, each straining for some kind of independence. As the hours pass, Rachel Cusk's graceful, incisive prose passes through the experience of each mother, following them all from the early-morning scrambling, through car trips and visits to the mall, and finally to a dinner party in the evening, when the husbands return and all the conflicts come to the surface. Penetrating and empathetic,Arlington Parkis a domestic adventure about the perils of modern privilege that is as smartly satirical as it is warmly wise (Elle).

Discussion Questions

1. What is the effect of the stormy weather that permeates the novel? How does the author use tangible details to convey intangible aspects of her characters' lives?

2. What is the source of Juliet's rage? To what extent are her feelings toward her husband, her children and her job common among women in her situation? Has the sense of possibility truly been extinguished in her, as she fears?

3. Amanda's car gives her a sense of control and escape, while Eddie continually makes her feel trapped. Where do the impressions and the reality of her life intersect? How does her current level of freedom compare to that of her previous life in business? Is her perfectionism an adequate tonic?

4. How is Christine's perception of the journey to the mall different from that of her friends? What does she realize about herself during this trip through the lesser suburbs, where saleswomen hawk thinness and the dressing rooms provide a common denominator?

5. Is Liz Connelly out of touch, or is she the most aware woman in her neighborhood? What does her religious awakening mean to her? Does it cause her to be a better or worse mother to Owen?

6. What were Maisie's expectations upon leaving London? What does her reactil“!