As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner - Book Club Discussion Questions

As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner was a 2005 Oprah Book Club pick. Written in a unique form, As I Lay Dying will give book clubs much to discuss in the way of substance and style. Use these book club discussion questions on As I Lay Dying to delve into one of Faulkner's classics.

Spoiler Warning: These book club discussion questions reveal important details about As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner. Finish the book before reading on.

1. How would you describe the relationships among different members of the family? How do the siblings feel about each other? Anse? Addie?

2. What does Cash's list of the 13 reasons for beveling the edges of the coffin reveal about him?

3. Which characters do you identify with the most? The least?

4. In what ways is this novel realistic and in what ways is it symbolic?

5. What does As I Lay Dying reveal about how people deal with death and grieving?

6. Why do you think Addie's chapter is placed where it is in the novel? What does it reveal about earlier chapters?

7. In what ways does Darl have visionary powers? What does this mean in light of what happens to him?

8. Are the obstacles the Bundrens on their way to Jefferson the result of forces being set against them or are they sabotaging themselves?

9. Did you find this novel hopeful or pessimistic?

10. Rate As I Lay Dying on a scale of 1 to 5.