Sherman Alexie is a current author that is demonstrating
by his works significant attention to two very important social issues that run across
generations and societies: young adult activity and the results of Native Americans
being robbed of their land, and therefore their culture or way of life in many
ways.
First, the silly experiences of Victor and Thomas
Builds-The-Fire in This is what it means to say Phoenix,
AZ demonstrate adolescence at it's best. Teenagers live loudly. These guys
are no different. Bullying occurs, friendships develop and change, and teens struggle
with the choices of their parents. Young people often take in so much of a society and
then change it for the better. This is difficult when Native Americans have been limited
to their reservation life.
For the Native American, Alexie
uses this work to satirize life on the reservation. He mocks alcohol consumption and
demonstrates that depression is real and a part of their circumstances, but the traits
he gives characters demonstrates that people certainly can choose depression and live
with it while others who don't experience joy and the celebration of Native American
culture and history.
For the European American, or
tresspassing American, Alexie reminds us to be respectful to Native Americans. Our
forefathers have rudely intruded and created a new society. This is a great work to
remind us to value their culture and help them maintain
it.
Because he is one of few widely read Native American
authors and because this novel introduces so much humor, he succeeds in achieving his
purposes for writing.
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