Football Genius

Early in the novel, the Midnight Express train seems to mean something to Troy and his relationship to his father. What is the symbolic significance of the train throughout the novel?

Troy’s rival Jamie seems to trigger bad behavior in Troy. How does Troy’s past contribute to his feelings about Jamie? How do you think his behavior toward Jamie might change after the events of the novel and why?

Coach Krock is dismissive of Troy’s skill when Seth brings Troy to Krock’s office. What does Coach Krock stand to gain by rejecting Troy? How does this rejection function in the larger structure of the novel (consider the Hero’s Journey), and what would the novel look like if Krock didn’t resist Troy’s ambitions?

Troy frequently considers what kind of man his father was and what it means to be a man. Observe the different types of masculinity that are present in the novel. Which characters exhibit toxic masculinity, and what kind of masculinity does Troy seem to want to emulate? Compare two characters and what their definition of manhood might be.

After Troy fails on his first attempt to help the Falcons against the Cowboys, he tries again. What seems to be the author’s message concerning to persistence? Is Troy’s destiny more important than his mother’s livelihood? Discuss why or why not.

Gramp is the only related male figure that Troy speaks with in the novel. How does Gramp function in the larger context, and why is his role important? Consider his advice to both Troy and Tessa; how might the novel have ended differently without Gramp in the narrative?

There’s some ambiguity around Troy’s ability in the novel. At one point, Gramp suggests that Troy is merely doing some form of subconscious mathematical calculation to predict plays. Is this morally wrong? Why or why not? Why is it important that Troy might have inherited this skill from his father?

How does the author use nature in the novel to convey his message? Consider the use of natural elements in descriptors and the symbol of the Hooch River in your answer.