The Canyon’s Edge is written almost completely in verse. Why does Nora use poetry to describe her experience alone in the canyon? How does her switch from prose to verse affect the reader?

Why does Nora build her wall? Do you think it helps Nora cope with the trauma she experienced? Why or why not?

How is Nora affected by PTSD? How does she manage and overcome her PTSD symptoms? In what ways does Mary help her? Why do you think Nora switches from her use of free verse to haiku when she describes Mary’s teachings?