The Pigman Theme of Youth

The Pigman's two main characters are fifteen years old. At times, they seem older and at times they seem like typical teenagers trying out roles and identities. We get a tantalizing glimpse into Lorraine's mother's past when Lorraine describes the photograph showing her parents young, attractive, and in love.

Questions About Youth

  1. How much of John's irresponsible behavior can be excused by his youth and inexperience?
  2. Is it possible for John and his father to improve their relationship and communication?
  3. By the novel's end, have John and Lorraine grown up at all?

Chew on This

Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.

John and Lorraine mature as the novel progresses.

Although, at the end of the novel, John says that he and Lorraine have learned to take responsibility for their actions, there is no real evidence that this is true.