1. Joseph Conrad wrote that the differences between two races of people could produce a mysterious element of sympathy. How does this play out in CLARA'S HEART.

2. The novel tells the story of a relationship that is defined by employment that must come to a natural end. How does this affect the behavior of the two principal characters.

3. How does David’s adoption of Clara’s special Jamaican patois add and sometimes threaten their intimacy.

4. How could one compare CLARA'S HEART to THE HELP?

5. The racist slur uttered at the end of the novel: should this be forgivable or unforgivable?