Intermezzo

The novel explores the complex and often strained relationship between brothers Peter and Ivan. How do their differing personalities and emotional needs shape the tensions and power dynamics between them?

Rooney narrates the novel from three perspectives: Peter, Ivan, and Ivan's love interest Margaret. Why do you think Rooney chose these three as her narrators? How do their styles of narration differ, and what do these differences tell you about their characters?

The relationships between Peter and Naomi, and perhaps more notably due to their genders, Ivan and Margaret, feature a decade plus age gap. How do the characters react to these gaps, both in relation to each other and to external perceptions? What presumptions did you have about age gap relationships before beginning this novel, and did the novel challenge any of them?

Contrast Peter's relationships with Sylvia and Naomi. How does what he seek and get out of each relationship differ? Discuss the different types of love that Rooney explores.

Intermezzo has been described as a "chess book without much chess in it." Discuss the significance of chess in the novel - both as a hobby/profession for Ivan and as a metaphor.

A recurring theme in Rooney's novels is what makes a life worth living, and what it means to be morally "good" or "right." How does Rooney continue to expore these questions in "Intermezzo"?

"Intermezzo" is a book of love and loss. What emotions did you feel as you read the novel? Did any of the story make you cry?

If you've read Rooney's previous novels, how did this one compare in style, themes, and impact?

In chess, an "intermezzo," or "in-between move" is an unexpected move, one that typically forces an immediate response from the opponent. In music, an "intermezzo" is a short, connecting interlude between two longer pieces. Why do you think Rooney chose this as the title of her novel?