Can't We Talk About Something More Pleasant?: A Memoir

Explore the memoir’s cultural and historical context. How do the setting and period influence the actions, beliefs, and interactions of the key figures?

How does the interplay between text, illustrations, and photographs enhance the book’s textual content?

Discuss the financial burden of elder care as Chast presents it. How does she address the costs associated with healthcare and assisted living? What commentary does she offer on the American healthcare system?

Discuss the role of denial in Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?. How does George and Elizabeth’s refusal to confront their declining health impact their relationship with Chast?

Consider the memoir’s narrative structure. How does Chast’s use of flashbacks and anecdotes contribute to the pacing and emotional impact of the story?

How does Chast explore aging and its challenges through the portrayal of her parents? Discuss how specific moments highlight the complexities of caring for elderly loved ones in light of understanding and empathy.

How do Chast’s relationships with her parents influence her approach to parenting her children? Expand on this by imagining how this approach affected her family’s dynamics and relationships later in their lives.

Analyze the portrayal of Brooklyn in Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? How does this setting affect the memoir’s key figures?