At the start of the novel, Hodges is struggling to let go of his identity as a “Knight of the Badge and Gun” (21). How does Hodges’s self-perception shift over the course of the novel, and in what ways does the knowledge of his impending death affect him? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

Research the concept of telepathy and how it is has been presented in popular culture. What established notions about telepathy does King draw on? Does he introduce any original ideas about telepathy? Reference textual evidence in your response.

How does King present technology in the novel? Choose two examples of technology from the text and discuss whether they are shown to have positive or negative influences.