White Noise Responces

Why do people seem to like Hitler so much? (Aquaman)

I am not sure if the people love Hitler himself so much as they find him and his policies interesting to study. The book goes into very little detail about what is actually studied in the program. As Jack puts it, they are studying “Hitler’s life and work.” Perhaps they are hoping to gain knowledge to prevent things like the Holocaust and World War II in general from happening again. It is rather strange though that a whole department of study is devoted to a man responsible for the deaths of millions of people. I also find it unusual that the idea of Hitler studies was so readily accepted and successful.

Is Jack truly happy with his not-so-pleasant looking wife newest wife? (Quarter Rose)

I believe Jack is truly happy and in love. Babette’s imperfections almost prove that. There is nothing special and outstanding about her look (except her wild hair) proving their love is not superficial. Jack shares everything with Babette as he did with his other wives, but his connection with her seems deeper than this connection with previous spouses.  Jack says “Babette and I have turned our lives completely for each other’s thoughtful regard, turned them in the moonlight in our pale hands, spoken deep into the night about fathers and mothers, childhood, friendships, awakenings, old loves, old fears (except fear of death). It is this sentence that makes me believe their love is more special. Jack also claims “no detail is left out, not even a dog with ticks.” This last sentence confirmed my previous thoughts.  

Why is Jack obsessed with the idea of death, and what does it add to the novel? (Weaboo)

Both Jack and Babette are frightened of death. It consumes their thoughts though they avoid discussing it. This somewhat irrational fear is the only thing the couple does not discuss. Jack explains how they talk about “mothers and fathers, childhood, friendships, awakenings, old loves, [and] old fears (except fear of death). The reappearance of question “who will die first” suggests that Jack is constantly thinking about death. Perhaps this fear will control Babette’s and his actions. Babette is unable to handle death and injury as she was nearly inconsolable when her mother died and Jack’s daughter broke her arm. Assuming Jack reacts in a similar way, this fear of death could negatively affect the whole family.