Chapter 9, titled "The Shot," closes out John Irving's 1989 novel A Prayer for Owen Meany. It is a work the rewards a deep reading and involved discussion.

Some questions that may facilitate discussion of the novel:

1. What is the view that Irving presents of the 1960s? How does it differ from or adhere to the common narrative of the decade?

2. Discuss Hester's musical career.

3. Religion plays a key role in the novel. What is the role of faith and belief in the final chapter? How does it relate to the rest of the novel?

4. How is the novelist Thomas Hardy brought into the novel? Why? Do Hardy's themes relate at all to the book? Explain.

5. Do you think there is any significance to the mention of two Greek tragedies, Medea and The Trojan Women? Are there any tragic aspects to the novel, or, could Owen somehow be seen as a tragic hero? Explain.

6. How would you describe Irving's literary or writing style? Is it effective or not?

7. What is Irving's tone throughout the chapter? Give examples.

8. Quite a few other books are mentioned in this chapter. What do you think Irving's purpose is? In what way is the book in dialogue with other books?

9. Discuss the ending. Does it wrap everything up or leave some things unresolved? What is your personal reaction to the ending? Be specific, more than just "I liked it."

10. Discuss Owen as a character. Is he flat or round? Why do you think Irving chose this fate for him?

11. Various characters are religious, but they approach their faith in very different ways. Pick two characters to compare and contrast. Which character seems to have the more authentic faith?