Write a literature essay based on the novel "The absolutely diary of a part time indian" about how the theme of poverty and deaths affected Junior. The essay must have a clear background information, thesis statement(climax and how) and a clear roadmap in the introduction

Answer 1

Background Information:
"The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" is a poignant and semi-autobiographical novel written by Sherman Alexie. The story follows the life of Arnold Spirit Jr., known as Junior, a Native American teenager who lives on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Washington state. Poverty and death are recurring themes in this novel and have a profound impact on Junior's life.

Thesis Statement:
Throughout "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian," poverty and deaths affect Junior emotionally, intellectually, and physically, propelling him on a journey of self-discovery and resilience as he seeks to break free from the cycle of poverty and overcome the tragedies that befall him.

Roadmap:
This essay will delve into Junior's experiences with poverty and death on the reservation, exploring their impact on his emotional well-being, intellectual growth, and physical mobility. It will analyze the climax of the story, wherein Junior realizes the need to leave the reservation to pursue a better life and the subsequent challenges he faces in achieving this goal.

Junior's experience with poverty is a constant thread throughout the novel. Growing up in a destitute household with limited resources exemplifies his struggle. The lack of basic necessities such as food, clothing, and access to healthcare severely affects his physical well-being. Junior remarks, "Hunger hurts, but starving works," indicating the grim reality of his situation (Alexie, p. 41). The constant presence of poverty and Junior's awareness of it shapes his perspective on life, instilling within him a deep sense of empathy for others who are similarly afflicted.

In addition to poverty, death is a prevalent theme that deeply impacts Junior's emotional state. The sudden demise of his sister, Mary, from an illness leaves Junior devastated. This tragedy shatters him emotionally, as he loses one of his closest companions during a time of immense personal struggle. Furthermore, Junior's countless encounters with death within his community emphasize the harsh reality faced by those living on the reservation. The suicides, alcoholism-related fatalities, and accidental deaths reveal the pervasive sense of hopelessness and despair that Junior must grapple with on a daily basis.

The climax of the novel occurs when Junior decides to leave the reservation and attend Reardan, a predominantly white school outside the reservation. This momentous decision is driven by his realization that education offers him the possibility of a better life, breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and death that plagues his community. Junior asserts, "I realized that, sure, I was a Spokane Indian. I belonged to that tribe. But I also belonged to the tribe of American immigrants" (Alexie, p. 42). This revelation marks a turning point, fueling Junior's determination to succeed academically and escape the limitations imposed by the reservation.

Following his decision, Junior faces numerous challenges as he navigates an unfamiliar and often hostile environment. He encounters racism, discrimination, and cultural clashes, all of which threaten to derail his quest for a better future. Nevertheless, the hardships he endures serve as a testament to his resilience and resourcefulness.

In conclusion, poverty and deaths in "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" significantly impact Junior's emotional, intellectual, and physical growth. The destitution he faces and the losses he endures force him to confront the harsh realities of life on the reservation. However, his experiences ultimately serve as a catalyst for change, propelling him towards self-discovery and the pursuit of a brighter future. Through overcoming the challenges presented by poverty and death, Junior exhibits unwavering resilience, inspiring readers to reflect on their own circumstances and the transformative power of personal determination.