Book's Importance
What theme in the novel explores youth?
Transition to adulthood
What literary devices in the novel create emotion?
Imagery, symbolism, foreshadowing
What is another famous work by McCarthy?
The Road, Blood Meridian, No Country for Old Men
McCarthy’s popular prose style?
Minimalist
How old is John?
16
Who helps John reclaim his horses?
Himself
Which subplots enrich the story?
Blevins’ story, ranch work, romance
Where did McCarthy grow up?
Knoxville, Tennessee
Who symbolizes unattainable love?
Who is John’s loyal friend?
Lacey Rawlins
John’s main dream?
Working with horses; living a cowboy lifestyle
Repeated themes?
Honor, love, fate, moral complexity
War period influencing McCarthy's worldview?
WWII
Mexico symbolizes?
Opportunity & danger
Corrupt officer?
The Captain
Event showing harsh reality of law?
Arrests in Encantada & Saltillo
Blevins’ story symbolizes?
Recklessness & loss of innocence
What is the Border Trilogy?
Series including All the Pretty Horses
Sparse dialogue effect?
Heightens tension & realism, indirect characterization
Who enforces social constraints?
Doña Alfonsa, Alejandra's Aunt
Why does John’s relationship with Alejandra end?
Bought out of prison, Alejandra's Aunt disapproves of it; socioeconomic norms & constraints.
How are dreams vs. reality explored?
Through John’s ambitions & obstacles
Why is McCarthy in literary canon?
His innovative style, deep themes, human nature exploration
How is internal development conveyed?
Reflective narration, minimalism, dialogue
Who dies tragically by The Captain?
Jimmy Blevins