Examine the interracial romance between Jo and the character referred to as The Boy. Considering her mother's reaction at the conclusion of Act II, to what extent did race influence Jo's decision to date and eventually fall in love with him?

Investigate the economic conditions faced by working-class women in northern England throughout the twentieth century. What kinds of opportunities were available for women from the working class?

Helen is described as a semi-whore. Discuss how women's lives and the poverty of their environment are portrayed. Based on late twentieth-century standards, would Helen still be characterized in this way? Do you believe attitudes towards sexuality have significantly changed over the past forty years?

Jo possesses some artistic talent, and Geof is attending art school. Later in the play, the audience discovers that Jo can earn some money by retouching photos. Explore the career opportunities for aspiring artists. What types of jobs are available, and how challenging is it to make a living in this field?