Franny and Zooey

What is the role of Buddy in the novel? What is the purpose of Buddy’s introduction before Zooey begins? What is Buddy’s relationship with Franny, and how does that differ from his relationship with Zooey?

Franny uses the term “phony” to describe the inauthentic professors and students at her college. What is the significance of this term for Franny? How does her horror of phoniness inform the crisis of faith she undergoes in the novel?

Describe the significance of Seymour’s room. How does Seymour’s death affect the character’s lives? Has Zooey gotten over Seymour’s death like he claims that he has? How can you tell?

What role does nostalgia play in the novel? Do the characters idealize the past or feel haunted by it? Provide textual support.

Describe Franny’s understanding of religion and spirituality. Why does Franny like the connection between the Jesus Prayer and meditation? What is Franny’s fascination with synchronizing her breath with prayer? How does this relate to Franny’s understanding of religion as a child? Provide specific examples.

What is the significance of Lane and Franny’s relationship? Franny largely dislikes Lane, but she is angry with herself for being unkind to him. What does this inner conflict suggest about the coming-of-age process she’s going through?

Describe the significance of “It’s a Wise Child.” What larger cultural forces does the show symbolize? What did the radio show teach Franny and Zooey? How did the radio show affect the children negatively?

Describe the relationship between Bessie and Zooey. Why does Zooey antagonize Bessie? What does his treatment of her reveal about his character? Why are Franny’s actions so upsetting to Bessie?