Razorblade Tears

Buddy Lee seems to be incapable of communicating without joking, although his life is not filled with fun. What role does humor play for him? Is it a habit, a nervous tic, a sign of his amusement with life, a coping mechanism, or a combination of these things? Support your argument with examples from the text.

Ike and Buddy Lee grow emotionally throughout the story. What does each of them learn from the other?

The novel presents round characters, who change, and flat characters, who don’t. What function do the flat characters serve? Pick three and discuss, using examples from the text.

Buddy Lee and Ike spend the novel trying to gain what they see as justice for their sons. Does Cosby suggest that it is possible to take revenge in a meaningful way? According to the novel, is it ever the right thing to do? Why or why not?

Buddy Lee and Ike have different perspectives on racism and intolerance, and each has oblivious spots that have prevented them from empathizing with others. How does Cosby portray Ike and Buddy’s strengths and weaknesses?

Cosby uses a number of characters to foil one another. Pick two characters and discuss how they reveal each other through contrasting traits.

What do you think Tangerine’s main purpose in the story is? How does Cosby use her to advance the plot and develop characters and themes?

Discuss the meaning of Ike’s tattoo. How does it illuminate his internal struggle and the theme of Competing Identities?