Outer Dark contains numerous biblical allusions, including the title, which alludes to the “outer darkness” referenced in Mathew 8:12, 22:13, and 25:30. Furthermore, it is allegorical, like a biblical parable. In its metaphysical underpinnings, how does Outer Dark differ from the biblical stories it alludes to?

Compare and contrast Outer Dark with William Faulkner’s novel Light in August, focusing on the female protagonists, Lena Grove and Rinthy Holme. How do their respective quests differ, and how are they similar?

The trio, or “grim triune” (129), is a shadowy, enigmatic presence in the novel. Are they a symbolic force, a gang of outlaws, or something in between? Focus on the use of imagery in their characterization.