Sex and Vanity: A Novel

How does Lucie Churchill’s interest in George Zao create conflict between her internal and external worlds? Consider how Lucie sees herself before meeting George and how her behavior changes after meeting George.

Explore Lucie’s reasons for feeling like an outsider in high society. Consider how she behaves and speaks in comparison to others, as well as how others speak to and behave around her. Explore how Lucie’s background and dual heritage play into these social dynamics.

How does Lucie’s time in Capri upset her internal balance and disrupt her sense of control? What conflicts does she encounter while here? How and why does she struggle to resolve these conflicts? In what ways does her time in Capri mark a turning point in her adult life?