Use the drop-down menus to answer each question to think about what influenced the poem.

Question

What is one likely way Bruchac's life influenced his poem?
Bruchac is part American Indian and part European.

What text in the poem shows that Bruchac is aware of his European heritage?

What text in the poem shows that Bruchac feels close to his American Indian heritage?

Why might Bruchac's mixed heritage make him want to write this poem?

Answer 1

1. What is one likely way Bruchac's life influenced his poem?
   Bruchac's mixed heritage likely influenced his poem by shaping his perspective on identity and cultural connections, allowing him to explore and express the complexities of being both American Indian and European.

2. What text in the poem shows that Bruchac is aware of his European heritage?
   Text that references European traditions, history, or cultural elements might indicate his awareness of this heritage. Specific phrases would depend on the content of the poem.

3. What text in the poem shows that Bruchac feels close to his American Indian heritage?
   Text that includes imagery, symbols, or references to American Indian traditions, nature, or community would reflect his connection to his American Indian heritage.

4. Why might Bruchac's mixed heritage make him want to write this poem?
   Bruchac's mixed heritage may drive him to write this poem as a means to reconcile and express the dual aspects of his identity, share the unique perspectives that come from being part of two cultures, and foster understanding between them.