Victor And Thomas Journey Essay

454 Words2 Pages
The idea and use of an important social and physical journey is a concept commonly seen in Native American literature. As seen in “This is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona”, Victor and Thomas embark on a journey that ultimately leaves a lasting impact on the lives of both characters. In order to better grasp and comprehend the impact of the social and physical journey Thomas and Victor take, readers must also understand the historical relevance and importance of physical and social journeys through oratorical storytelling in Native American history and culture. Part of Native American culture is the oratorical passing down of history through storytelling. Thomas encompasses this tradition in his interpretations of dreams and in his oratorical stories. Anson Ferguson supports the idea that there is more behind Thomas’ stories in stating that, “Not only does Thomas provide…show more content…
Katheleen Carroll regards the journey as an “opportunity to use stories to transform Victor’s sense of worthlessness into purpose” (Carroll 80). Alexie analyzes the Native American celebration of the Fourth of July in Thomas’ flashback and statement, "It's strange how us Indians celebrate the Fourth of July. It ain't like it was our independence everybody was fighting for”(Alexie 2). In this statement Thomas addresses how for years following the independence of The United States of America, Native Americans were continuously having his and her independence taken away during periods of time such as The Trail of Tears. In these examples readers can further grasp the parallels between “This is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona” and Native American history. Through the use of historical parallels in “This is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona”, Alexie further emphasizes the impact the journey to Phoenix, Arizona had on Victor and Thomas’
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