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Discussion Questions
1. Would you describe Tony Webster as an "unreliable yet sincere narrator"?
2. To what extent do you think Julian Barnes uses “peripeteia,” the unexpected twist in plot, to encourage the reader to adjust their expectations?
3. Do you agree with Anita Brookner’s review, “his [Julian Barnes] reputation will surely be enhanced by this book.” The Telegraph, July 2011.
4. The Sense of an Ending is a novel about the imperfections of memory. What insight does it give the reader into ageing and memory?
5. Is the ending unforeseen, does it leave you with a sense of unease?
(Questions issued by publisher.)
Also see the Discussion Questions at Princeton Book Review. They're much more comprehensive.
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