The Elementals

Questions About The Elementals

by Michael McDowell

Reader Q&A

To ask other readers questions about The Elementals, please sign up.

Answered Questions (7)

I just finished the book this past weekend. I enjoyed it very much, but I found that it was so much more than a novel about a haunted house. The family dynamics were very interesting especially the relationship of Luker and India. Also, the sand! I felt that the author (too bad he passed away), was saying something, but I can't figure out what it was that he was saying. Or, am I reading too much into the novel?
Jim Puskas Yes. Christopher Fowler in his "Book of Forgotten Authors" identifies a recurrent theme in McDowell's books: "McDowell frequently returns to the idea …moreYes. Christopher Fowler in his "Book of Forgotten Authors" identifies a recurrent theme in McDowell's books: "McDowell frequently returns to the idea of being engulfed by natural forces, as man-made walls collapse and seas rise .... and he links these natural catastrophes to our own selfishness or blindness, flaws that leave dark stains on future generations.(less)
flag
This question contains spoilers... (view spoiler)
James The Savage family seems cursed, and the boys will be subject to it. That's my guess, anyway.…moreThe Savage family seems cursed, and the boys will be subject to it. That's my guess, anyway.(less)
flag
Also finished reading the book over the weekend, and so many questions, which I think makes this a great story! At the end when India gained her sight, why is it that she wouldn't go around the twins? Her explanation is because they're "Savages." Is the Savage family cursed? I'm missing the connection of the Elementals and the Savage family.
Graham
This answer contains spoilers… (view spoiler)
flag
Were all of the characters black? Not that it makes much difference, but curious.
Mary Jo No. One strong message explores the inequality of black people and of women as well. The black character Odesa is a great character. We see how she is…moreNo. One strong message explores the inequality of black people and of women as well. The black character Odesa is a great character. We see how she is not taken seriously and not given enough materially or emotionally for all she does. She is most likely the smartest person in the room, and failing g to see that is consequential for everyone. Our author is actually dissing and poking fun at the Southern Gothic device. Great read!(less)
flag
This question contains spoilers... (view spoiler)
Pandora Without being too glib, I think it was both. The third house became a depository for all of the ongoing family mythology.
flag

Unanswered Questions (1)

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more