ENG 102 GCCCD Cuckoos calling by Robert Galbraith Discussion

The first romantic relationship we’re exposed to is that of Robin & Matthew. Their flurry of romance seems to peter out markedly the longer that Robin is employed with the private detective. What did you think about their relationship; is his often cold demeanor and belittling attitude toward her job a “red flag” (i.e., an indicator of a potentially emotionally abusive relationship) or simply the “growing pains” related to the new stage of their relationship? What else did you think about Robin & Matthew?The second relationship we see is one that is imploding. As Charlotte flees Strike’s office, Galbraith describes her as “livid, yet strangely exhilarated,” (13) feeding into the stereotype of “unstable” women who take advantage of their significant others — and feed off of it. As the story of their relationship unfolds, we learn more about their tumultuous past — and not even Strike is sure what to think! What do you think about their relationship dynamic as we learn more about it? Do you think she is being intentionally manipulative and controlling? Why or why not?While reading this book, there is this focus, as Lady Gaga puts it, on The Fame Monster and what fame does to those seeking it and those ensconced in it. On top of that, Galbraith’s juxtaposition of war and celebrity was reminiscent of The Hunger Games’ use of those concepts. Our culture seems obsessed with celebrity, violence, and fame – why do you think that is? What do you think Galbraith was trying to say about these concepts?