Austin Chapter
Reader's Guide

May 2006

Heretic's Heart
Margot Adler

I thought this very personal memoir was actually several books in one. Margo claims that she originally wanted to publish just the letters from her "love affair through the mail". The book seemed to grow around the correspondence between Margo and Marc.

1. Do you think Adler had a happy chilhood? What was your impression of her early schooling? How was it for her growing up in the 50's? Comment on her relationship with both of her parents.

2. Do you think she is really a rebel? How does her recollection of the politics of the 60's free speech movement differ from your own memories or stories you've heard? Were the 60's only a time of "sex, drugs, and rock and roll"? What were some of her more complix motives for participation as a civil rights worker in the South besides her idealism?

3. Margo describes herself as "A Left Wing Nun in the Summer of Love". Do you think Margo was naive and overly idealistic about Marxism at Berekeley? Why didn't she join the party there? How did she react to Marxism in Cuba?

4. What was your impression of the letters between Marc and Margo? What was their tone, and did they seem mature or immature for their age? (20 & 21 ) How did this correspondence change Margot? Describe their conflicts. Did the relationship end as you expected?

5. Why do you think that Margo found meaning in paganism and ritual? Why is Wicca appealing to her? Does this calling seem a natural outgrowth of her earlier experiences? How do you respond to someone who calls themselves a witch?

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