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Reading Group Guide

Discussion Questions

Lathe of Heaven

1. What role do the quotes play throughout the novel? Which was your favorite? Why? Which quote, if any, do you think encapsulates the main theme of the novel?

2. Do you think that George has found a way to stop his dreams at the end? Does the importance lie in his ability to control the dreams or to exterminate them?

3. What would you do if you could change the world by dreaming? What would be your first dream? Would it be a power you would want to keep?

4. As much as his world changes around him, Orr was still able to remain true to his core being. How important do you think this stability is to the outcome? Was his therapy helpful in this aspect?

5. The main tension throughout the novel is that between Orr and his therapist Dr. Haber. How do this tension and its inherent power struggle get resolved? In the end who is the stronger?

6. Heather LeLache is the main female character throughout the novel. How does her character change, both in her view of Orr as well as her view of the world she lives in? Why is she the only character who is, effectively, reborn?

7. How does Dr. Haber plan to use Orr's power? Why is he destroyed by his own plans in the end? What is his never-ending dream/nightmare?

8. Which of Orr's many worlds would you feel comfortable living in?

9. Despite the changes that wreak havoc upon Orr's world, there are a few elements that remain constant. What are they and why do you think they are important?

10. Why do you think the aliens are the only ones who can save Orr? What do the aliens represent in his mind?

11. Can you find reality in a dream?

Lathe of Heaven
by Ursula Le Guin

  • Publication Date: August 19, 2003
  • Paperback: 176 pages
  • Publisher: Harper Perennial Modern Classics
  • ISBN-10: 0060512741
  • ISBN-13: 9780060512743