Story Circle Network
Austin Chapter
Reader's Guide

January 2001
Back Talk

Back Talk: Teaching Our Lost Selves to Speak
by Joan Weimer

  1. What did you think of the unusual way Joan Weimar combined her exploration of Constance Woolson's life with her own personal story? Do you think it was effective? What did Joan gain by putting the two stories together as she did? What would be lacking if she had simply told her own story? If she had told only Connie's story?

  2. Joan's illness gives her the time and the impetus to look into her past. What are some of her most important discoveries? (You might jot these down, with page numbers, and we'll compare notes.)

  3. As Joan's study of Connie progresses, she makes some important discoveries about her subject. What are they? Are they related in any way to her discoveries about herself?

  4. As time passes, Joan begins to identify with Connie. What are some instances of this? Are there any ways in which you identify with Joan? What are they? Mark any passages in which she seems to be speaking for you.

  5. In her journey, Joan explores her connections to people who are important to her. Who are they? What do they teach her? Which of these do you think is most important? (For an easy reference, you might want to glance over the acknowledgments in the back of the book.)

  6. What is the significance of the title and subtitle? Find some references in the book that support your ideas and mark them for discussion.

  7. In the chapter "Sisters of Charity," there is an extended description of the descent of the goddess Inanna into the underworld. What role does this myth plan in Joan's life? in Connie's life? Has it ever played a role in your life?

  8. Have you ever experienced an illness or an enforced separation from your "normal" activities that taught you some things you needed to learn? Was the experience of reading this book anything like an experience of separation?