Footprints in the Snow; Digger's Good-Bye

by Jim Murphy

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Topics for Discussion

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The Enigmatic Digger

1. What makes Digger, who seems to have abandoned formal education by fourteen, such a talented writer?

2. Does Digger begin as a villain? Does his path lead him to malevolence? At what point and in which place does this transformation occur?

Digger's Inner Struggle

3. In the tale "Digger's Good-bye," he is plagued with guilt over slaying the affluent young couple during his time as a wolf, noting, "Those people hadn't done anything to me." Why does he once more succumb to temptation and join the wolves in a second hunt?

4. Despite not being much of a team player, what draws Digger to the allure of running with a wolf pack?

5. Is Digger a figure of strength or of weakness? What clues reveal his true nature?

The Suspense of Discovery

6. At what moment did you suspect Digger might be a werewolf? How does Murphy craft this revelation with suspense?

7. Even before his lupine transformation, Digger displays a rebellious streak. Why, despite his off-putting demeanor, does he captivate as a storyteller?

8. Digger reflects, "Think something positive about wolves and, poof, you're one of them. But I guess that's the same with most other evil things. Once you start to see the slightest thing good about them you're hooked." Could this be true?

The Mystery of Digger's Character

9. How intricately is Digger's character portrayed? What remains a mystery about him that piques your curiosity? What might Murphy's reasons be for leaving these details out?

10. To what extent does Alan Allan bear responsibility for the unfolding events?

The Allure of The Yard

11. Why does Digger find solace working in The Yard?

12. What compels Digger to continue his nocturnal strolls in The Yard despite previous dog attacks?

13. Does Digger assume the mantle of a leader or does he follow in others' footsteps? What evidence supports this?

Miriam's Musical Influence

14. What motivated Miriam to let music flow from The Box?

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