1. Trace Smoky's involvement in Atlanta's Civil Rights Movement. How do her developing politics affect her life choices? Do Smoky's newfound beliefs require her to make sacrifices? How do they liberate her?

2. How does Smoky navigate her career in the primarily male-dominated world of Downtown? How does she go about gaining the respect of her male boss and peers? When is her womanhood and sexuality an asset? A hindrance? What links can you draw between the Civil Rights Movement and the feminist movement?