Native American Novels
Adversity
Alexie and NorthSun write about the problems associated with being a modern American Indian. Much of the adversity is similar to what a majority of people in the world face. Issues of family, relationships, and heritage are presented from the views of two American Indians who know what the reservation life is all about. The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fist Fight in Heaven deals with the relationships that the American Indians have with each other, and how they are affected by modern American society. A Snake in Her Mouth is a collection of poems that offers a view of American Indian life and the author?s resentment of what is happening to an old society. Alexie and NorthSun use humor and cynicism to portray the difficulties facing modern American Indians as they try to preserve family ties and traditions while assimilating their culture into a modern society.
A major focus presented in both works is the role that alcohol plays in the lives of American Indians, often threatening family structures. Victor struggles with the tumultuous relationship his parents share. Their alcoholism is prevalent in many of the short stories written by Alexie.
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