9. Title - Go Set a Watchman?

[Carol]

9. (I'm sorry I made that error) Near the novel’s end, Jean Louise questions herself. “Everything I have ever taken for right and wrong these people have taught me --- these same, these very people. So it’s me, it’s not them. Something has happened to me.” Do you agree with her? Has she changed --- or is she truly the person who she was raised to be? Atticus tells her, “I’ve killed you, Scout. I had to.” What does he mean?

[Cindy]

This question is a repeat of the last one, but from the title, I think you're asking about the book's title?
It's a good one! Like "To Kill a Mockingbird" it's a very unusual title that you don't forget and that really forces you to think about what the book is saying. Obviously, the title is from a scripture Jean Louise hears in church, but I think it means what her Uncle says at the end: "...every man's watchman is his conscience. There is no such thing as a collective conscious." (pg 265). Love that.

[Barb]

Well, said.

[Chelsea]

Great thought Cindy. I think Scout is finally seeing through her "adult" eyes. I don't think she's changed.

And the Atticus kill comment.... no idea. Enlighten me!

[Cindy]

I think Atticus meant he had to "kill Scout" so Jean Louise (an adult woman) could be born. Almost sounds like he did those hateful, racist things so she'd stop worshiping him??? But, that's ridiculous, right?
Really great comments, everyone! Enjoyed the discussion and I'm so glad to have read this book - it's been it my TBR stack FOREVER.