Reservation Blues by Sherman Alexie is a complex narrative depicting the rise and fall of a rock and blues band comprising Spokane Indians from the Spokane Reservations in Washington (Sherman, 3). Through the use of dialogue, Alexie presents a casual tone and explores the intricate lives of ordinary Indians. The novel delves into the various dilemmas, burdens, and pain experienced by contemporary reservation Indians. Within the minds and opinions of the Indians themselves, as well as their society, there is a historical and ongoing resistance against any progress toward a better life. The Indians' actions can lead to both success and failure.
According to Sherman Alexie, the characters and experiences in the novel Reservation Blues reflect themes of femininity and masculinity. This is a recurring theme in Native American-authored fiction, specifically the lack of physically viabl
...e male characters and their relationship to paternal figures. This concern is significant in Native American literature and suggests a cultural phenomenon. The analysis of the text focuses on how paternal figures and events contribute to the portrayal of incomplete male protagonists. This exploration is important because it highlights a culturally important gender dynamic. Sherman Alexie suggests that there are many individuals who claim to be Native American but are not truly connected to their spirituality, akin to fake quartz crystal commonly found in New Age subcultures (Sherman 5).
According to Sherman (7), Reservation Blues is a fictional story that begins with the introduction of a person known as Robert Johnson, who is a renowned blues musician. He arrives at Spokane Reservation in search of the woman he desires most. Later, he pretends to die to escape the Devil, with whom he
had made a pact. However, he has a dream about an old woman on a mountain who represents the possibility of redemption. Thomas Builds-the-Fire takes Robert Johnson to an enigmatic witch doctor named Big Mom, who lives in a cabin on the mountain. Thomas later discovers that Johnson has left him a guitar, which inspires him to bond with other outcasts like Junior Polatkin and Victor Joseph. Together, they form a band, even though they lack musical talent. Through this fictional story, Alexie accurately depicts the lives of modern Native Americans. The author introduces elements such as alcoholic parents and arrogant tribal politicians who enforce their authority (Sherman 12).
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