Essay Questions

Is the power of friendship emerging as one of the key themes in The Music of Bees by Eileen Garvin?

The power of friendship is one of the main themes that Garvin focuses on, and she illustrates how friends can uplift each other, especially during difficult times. The three friends, Alice, Jake, and Harry, have undergone various life challenges. For instance, Alice is 40 years old and grieving the death of her spouse and parents, Jacob is trying to come to terms after recovering from an accident, and Harry is homeless. These three strangers meet by fate and create an opportunity to share their misfortunes. Interestingly, all these three friends have a lot in common, and they find it easier to uplift and support each other. By supporting each other, these three friends get the courage to move forward and start afresh despite their dark past.

How did Alice and Jacob meet, and why did she invite him to stay with her?

The meeting between Alice and Jacob is coincidental because they collide on a country road. However, Alice notices that Jacob looks disturbed, and she becomes interested in knowing why he is sad. Alice learns that Jacob was earlier involved in an accident that left him paraplegic. Alice decides to take Jacob home, she encounters his rasping father, and she comprehends the reason why Jacob is unhappy. Therefore, she invites Jacob to come and live with her. Alice is happy to note that Jacob loves taking care of her honeybees.

What is the significance of the title The Music of Bees?

The author uses the title The Music of Bees to signal the significance of encouragement and compassion. Literary bees sing their unique song to stick together and work towards a common course despite their challenges. Alice, Jacob, and harry are compared to bees, and they have common challenges, and they have similar ambitions. The primary objective of these three friends is to gain the courage to start life again despite their dark past.