In part, this is a novel about failed dreams.
This is apparent in at least three of the plotlines in the novel that involve a failed affair or romantic relationship that is connected to regrets about the past or broken futures:
Rena and Trexler
Darren and Gia
Herc and Jess
Using one of the relationships above or another example of unachieved or corrupted dreams or ideals from the novel, write a 3-part essay (introduction, evidence, conclusion) that reflects on this theme. In your conclusion, consider how this theme might be related to Natural Gas or oil culture.