Unlikable characters always make for more interesting discussion! Having some understanding of present day USA social mores helps lift the satirical aspects.
Helpful questions here:
http://www.litlovers.com/reading-guides/13-fiction/9795-to-rise-again-at-decent-hour?start=3

Book club members found the book a difficult read due to long stream of consciousness sentences and paragraphs describing the inane. Main character conflicted in all aspects of his life while searching for his identity and place in the world. Some did find nuggets of inspiration--just like visit to dentist, can be painful but rewarding.