What is a thoughtful question that can be asked and answered in regards to the book The Pearl

We usually don't formulate questions on this space but consider this recent one:

Does the pearl bring power to Kino or take it away?

Answer: The pearl only takes power away from Kino: it never gives Kino anything. The Pearl only makes men dream and makes them greedy. In the end, Kino comes home with broken dreams and a dead baby.