Second Coming Suggested Discussion Questions

What does Maria mean when she says to Paul, “If what you are saying is true, the entire human race is involved in a conspiracy of silence”?

1. Do Paul and Maria meet by accident? Explain how, in the novel’s universe, this question can be answered yes and no.

2. How does Preacher John define original sin? How does he define consciousness?

3. What is Ben’s interpretation of the common human experience of déjà vu? What does he mean by “post-reality?”

4. Why does Ben believe there can never be a Final Story?

5. In your opinion, what happened to Paul in Saint Matthew’s Church?

6. What is Jennifer’s definition of hell?

7. What is the “fundamental option?”

8. Why does Paul believe his mother refused communion when Michael gave her the last rites of the church?

9. Why do you think Michael told Paul, “You ruined my life?”

10. Why is Maria upset with Paul when he decides to go to Israel?

11. As Paul understands it, what is the Last Judgment?

12. What does Maria mean when she says to Paul, “If what you are saying is true, the entire human race is involved in a conspiracy of silence”?

13. Why does Preacher John refuse to let Paul tell him the Final Story?

14. Why does Paul seek admission to a monastery?

15. Paul tells his story to you as abbot of the monastery he seeks to join. Did you admit him? Why or why not?