Salmon Boy, a Haida Story by Robert San Souci, 2005 7. How does the boy change from the beginning to the end of the story?(2 points)

1 answer

In the story "Salmon Boy" by Robert San Souci, the boy undergoes significant transformation from the beginning to the end.

  1. Selfishness to Responsibility: At the start, the boy is portrayed as selfish and unappreciative, disregarding the importance of nature and the environment. He is initially focused only on his own desires and lacks respect for the traditions of his people. By the end of the story, after he experiences the consequences of his actions and the connection with the salmon, he learns the value of respecting nature and the balance of life.

  2. Ignorance to Understanding: Initially, the boy fails to understand the significance of the salmon to his culture and the ecosystem. Through his journey, particularly after being transformed into a salmon himself, he gains deep insight into the life cycle of the salmon and the importance of cooperation and gratitude. This newfound understanding leads him to appreciate the wisdom of his elders and the traditions of his people, ultimately transforming him into a more compassionate and responsible individual.

Thus, the boy's evolution from selfishness and ignorance to responsibility and understanding is central to the narrative, reflecting the themes of connection to nature and cultural heritage.