The Mermaid Chair suggests that a love affair may be a common response to a marriage that has lost its way, but that in the end it is not a solution. In what way do you think the novel is a cautionary tale? Why do you think Jessie is unable to heed the warnings from Kat and Hepzibah? How could Jessie have found awakening without betraying her marriage?

I had a hardtime finishing this book because I have strong feelings on adultry. IMO in her case it was showed a weakness of character and a copout. Communicate with your spouse, express your feelings and what you are experiencing. If that fails and you are truely miserable than separate.....then jump into bed with another man.