Essay Questions

How are the ideas of freedom and boundaries explored in this text?

Interestingly, the teenage protagonist Tristran learns a lot about consent, freedom, and boundaries during the course of the novel. For example, at the beginning of the story, he fails to see the star as a human and attempts to control and possess her. However, the star protests this, and he comes to respect her as a person as the novel continues. In addition to this, Tristran also has a possessive attitude towards Victoria, who feels trapped by her promise to marry Tristran if he brings back the star. In the end, Tristran learns that true love is about more than possession and control.

How does Tristran's outfit change symbolize his development as a character?

Throughout the text, Gavin matures and develops as a character. This idea is emphasized in the following passage:

"Tristran Thorn in crimson and canary was not the same man that Tristran Thorn in his overcoat and Sunday suit had been. There was a swagger to his steps, a jauntiness to his movements, that has not been there before."

As such, Tristran's outfit change overall represents his increased confidence and maturity through the text. The outfit is outlandish and bold in colour, representing the fact that Tristran is more himself and open with his personality.

What is the significance of Tristran's dream?

Tristran has a dream about stars that are dancing. The stars each look down on the humans below them, laughing about the fact that humans believe they are the center of the universe. This is an interesting dream, as it suggests Tristran is becoming self-aware and realizes he can often be self-centered.