To Room Nineteen

What effect does the use of an omniscient narrator have on the story? How might the story change if it were written from different points of view, such as Matthew’s or Sophie’s?

The attitude that both Susan and Matthew have toward marital infidelity seems nonchalant, though Susan does express some disappointment at Matthew’s indiscretions. Later, infidelity becomes a significant, if atypical, driver of the story’s conclusion. What role does infidelity play in the marriage and in Susan’s decisions?

Clearly, Susan is unhappy in her role as wife and mother; however, she seems unable to articulate exactly what she is seeking, even during her time in Room 19. What hints does the story provide regarding the roots of Susan’s unhappiness, and why is it so difficult for her to speak about it? How does this relate to “madness” as a social construct?