Introduction:
In Alexie's (2007) The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, identity is portrayed as a product of individual experiences. Specifically, racial and gender identities are shaped through a range of social encounters. Arnold Spirit, the protagonist of the novel, reflects on the skills, talents, and potential achievements of his parents, had they not been burdened by poverty. This essay will argue that these reflections significantly contribute to Arnold's sense of his own identity as an American Indian. By examining the impact of these reflections, the essay will provide a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of identity formation in the novel.
Skills and Talents of Arnold's Parents:
Arnold attributes various skills and talents to his parents, acknowledging their potential for success despite their impoverished circumstances. He expresses regret over the missed opportunities his parents faced due to their financial limitations. For instance, he believes his father could have excelled as a painter, noting his artistic abilities: "My dad was an amazing artist. He could draw a perfect picture of a horse running from memory. And he knew how to read books and newspapers, too. And my dad played the guitar and sang. He was way better than everybody else on the rez" (Alexie, 2007, p. 38). Additionally, Arnold praises his mother's intelligence, stating, "My mother was...so intelligent. She could have been a doctor if she hadn't dropped out of school" (Alexie, 2007, p. 39).
Shaping of Arnold's Racial Identity:
Arnold's reflections on his parents' skills and talents heavily influence his perception of his own racial identity as an American Indian. Despite the limitations imposed by poverty, Arnold sees his parents as proof that Indians are capable of excellence in various domains. He recognizes the rich cultural heritage that exists within his community, and he internalizes a sense of pride in his Native American identity. Arnold states, "My mother and father were living proof that I could grow up and make something of myself. It was a powerful argument, a winning argument, a triumphant and irrefutable argument...And it was an argument that every Indian had to face and fight at least once in their lives" (Alexie, 2007, p. 39).
Furthermore, Arnold's reflections on his parents' potential achievements bring forth a sense of frustration towards the systemic barriers that hinder his own opportunities. He confronts the reality of discrimination and limited resources on the reservation, yet he refuses to let these factors define him solely as an Indian. Instead, Arnold strives to transcend these constraints and create a more empowered narrative for himself and his community.
Conclusion:
In The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, Arnold's reflections on his parents' skills and talents contribute immensely to his sense of racial identity as an American Indian. He recognizes the potential of his parents and acknowledges the barriers they faced due to poverty. These reflections instill in Arnold a deep pride in his Native American heritage, motivating him to challenge the stereotypes and prejudices he encounters. By presenting this transformative journey, Alexie underscores the significance of personal experiences in shaping one's identity and highlights the resilience and determination of individuals in overcoming societal constraints. Ultimately, Arnold's reflections on his parents serve as a catalyst for him to forge his own path and redefine what it means to be an American Indian in a society that often neglects their potential.
One of our points of departure for analysing Alexie’s (2007) The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is that identity is learned through experience. For example, racial and gender identities are formed through a range of social experiences. Early in the novel, Arnold Spirit reflects on his parents’ skills, talents and the achievements he believes they could have reached if they had not been poor. How do these reflections shape Arnold’s sense of his identity as an American Indian? Answer this question in the format of a formal academic essay, which means that you must present a rigorously evidenced argument. Use the following structure: First, write an introduction with a thesis statement and a road map – but without background information (around 150 words). Second, in one paragraph briefly and accurately describe the skills and talents Arnold attributes to his parents, and what he thinks they could have achieved if they had not been poor (between 100 and 200 words). Third, explain how these reflections shape Arnold’s racial identity. You must cite evidence from the novel, and you may break this part of your essay into several paragraphs (between 300 and 400 words). Finally, write a conclusion that summarises your thesis statement and the evidence you have provided in support of that thesis (around 200 words).
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