Selina’s father is a professional gambler. How does his free-spirited approach to life influence Selina’s decisions, particularly with regard to Dirk?

The novel opens with a brief scene between Selina and Dirk before moving back in time to Selina’s childhood. What is the effect of structuring the story in this manner?

August Hempel is a successful businessman in the meatpacking trade. How does his rise to fortune and status reflect his working-class values? How does he maintain these values in spite of his great wealth?