Essay Questions

How does Mona Awad explore the theme of obsession in the novel Rogue?

Obsession emerges as the primary theme in Rogue. The two primary characters, Noelle and her daughter Mirabelle, are obsessed with beauty and their skin color. Despite living in separate states, readers realize that these characters love treating their skin and ensuring they maintain their beauty. In Southern California, Noelle co-owns a trendy spa where she spends most of her time tending to her skin. Noelle has a special routine for her skincare, which consumes most of her time daily. On the other hand, Mirabelle spends most of her time watching YouTube videos to learn how to care for her skin. When Mirabelle returns to Southern California, she joins Rogue SPA and focuses more on skin care.

Why is Mirabelle deciding to return home after a long period?

Mirabelle and her mother live in separate states, and they rarely communicate or visit each other. However, when her mother dies in a road accident, Mirabelle is forced to return home after a long time to reconnect with her roots and learn more about her deceased mother. Ideally, Mirabelle is back to confront her disconnect and face the reality of her past.

What is the symbolic meaning of "Rogue" as explained by the author?

Rogue is a major symbol frequently appearing in the novel to represent a sect. Rogue is an outstanding spa treatment facility in Southern California. The customers who visit the spa become fixated with beauty and keep returning even when they do not need skin care services. The spa is co-owned by Noelle, Mirabelle's mother. The Rogue spa pursues the "most magnificent self" of individuals, implying that it attracts customers and forces them to visit the spa without their consent.