Powder

Discussion Questions about "Powder"

Why in the first page was he supposed to say "right doctor"? What caused the split up between father and the mother? Why is the father so into bringing the boy home so early? Who did the father call in the diner? and why? Are the events of the entire day a metaphor relating to the relationship between the mom and dad? Does the dad have a spanish background? Does the dad set a double standard about his son? (I'm a good driver, you aren't) Was is the son such a contrast to the father? What is the real reason why the cop left the barricade?

Why didn't dad learn last time that he was irresponsible?
 * Do I think the son will try to back up his dad when his mom gets mad because their late?**

Will the father be forgiven? Why does the son answer "yes sir" about being together again with the family?

Is there another reason why the mom and dad split up? Why does the father not believe that the father as the same driving ability as himself?


 * What does "Powder" signify?**
 * What does the last line mean "if you haven't driven fresh powder, you haven't driven"?**

Boy's character: --likes to think ahead (about trooper) --Wants his family to be together --cautious, "fretter" --Appeaser, would like both parents to be happy --Puts his clothes on numbered hangers, organized/ obsessive? --Wants to do his homework in advance--overachiever?

Dad's character: --Doesn't pay attention to the time, --unreliable --Drives through a closed road --snuck kid into a jazz show late a night --irriesponsible --Wants to show how tough he is to his son-- --Caring, worries about his son, telling son to be cautious, wants to be part of a family again. --Rebel, risk taker because moved the barricade.