THE SOLOIST DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1.

When they first meet, Steve looks at Nathaniel as a compelling story for his newspaper, one that has the potential to bring attention to the inhabitants of Los Angeless Skid Row. What do you think compels him to continue to take on responsibility for Nathaniels wellbeing following the initial article?

2.

Although Steve didnt enter into his relationship with Nathaniel looking for either a friend or a musical teacher, he winds up with both. Discuss how their relationship progressed from writer-subject to the friendship the two men now enjoy. Is there a turning point in their relationship that you can identify? Have you experienced something similar in your own life?

3.

Classical music is a much a character throughout the book as any of the people. For Nathaniel, the music he plays at times can help to keep his illness at bay. Do you believe that these creative kinds of therapy can ever be a replacement for anti-psychotic drugs? How does Nathaniels love of music eventually begin to influence Steve?

4.

From their first meeting, Steve and Nathaniel both have an impact on each others lives that is almost palpable and touches the lives of the people around them. Discuss the ways in which their relationship becomes not only a catalyst for change in their lives but also the lives of others.

5.

Upon visiting Disney Hall for the first time, Nathaniel comments Its like a dream. I dont know if its a dream or purgatory . Steve ruminates upon this comment for a moment, finally accepting it as is. Discuss what you think Nathaniel means by this. Do you think theres any deeper meaning to it, or do you agree with Steves assessment?

6.

One of Steves goals in the book is to shed light on the homeless situation on Skid Row and the mental health problems that most of the people there suffer, going into some depth regarding different forms of therapy and medication. How do you think families should handle a mentally ill relative? Do you think it is okay to force treatment on a person? Are there any instances that could change your mind?

7.

Readers begin to donate instruments and money almost immediately following Steves first article. What do you think compels people to help a stranger? Do you believe that people would have been as eager to help Nathaniel had Steve not written about him and his plight? Why or why not? What do you think this says about human nature in general?

8.

Nathaniel attended Julliard during the 1960s, when its students were predominately white. How much do you think the pressures of being one of the only African-American students at Julliard contributed to Nathaniels breakdown?

9.

After Steves articles are published, the mayor of Los Angeles visits Skid Row with him to see it firsthand. Discuss whether or not you think hed have made this visit without Nathaniels story as a catalyst. Would a series of articles that simply focused on the homeless in Los Angeles as a group been as effective?

10. Nathaniel states I cant survive if I cant hear the orchestra the way I like to hear it. Do you agree with Steves assessment that, in a variety of ways, Nathaniel is freer as a man than most regular people? Do you think its possible for people to live unfettered by society without living outside of its confines?