Prophet Song

Why doesn’t Lynch name the new country or detail the National Alliance Party’s platform? Why does he refer to “the regime” or “the state” in vague terms?

Analyze the role of Eilish’s father, Simon, in the novel. How is he characterized? What themes or messages does his character help develop?

Discuss Lynch’s narrative style and structure and its impact on the text. How do the lack of paragraph breaks and sparing punctuation affect the novel’s tone and atmosphere? How does his extensive use of metaphor contribute to the novel?

What factors, both external and internal, enable the new regime to solidify its control over the people of Ireland? What does this suggest about human nature?

When Maeve first approaches Eilish with the opportunity to escape, Eilish refuses to leave. Why? What does Eilish’s refusal suggest about human nature and the connection between human beings and their environment?

While the changes that Ireland undergoes in the novel happen relatively quickly overall, some of the changes are subtle. Trace the rise of fascism in Prophet Song. What are the first signs that something is shifting? What messages does Lynch convey about the timing of characters’ reactions and decision-making in the face of these changes?

Eilish dreams of a “blue horse” early in the novel; she sees this horse again near the end, as they approach the sea. What does the blue horse represent? Use evidence from the text to support your response.

When the rebel army arrives in Dublin, circumstances don’t improve just because they win some victories. What message does Lynch communicate about the nature of war and violence?