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The Absolutely True Diary Of A Part-Time Indian

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Sherman Alexie's "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" presents a novel centered around Arnold Spirit Jr., a young Native American boy who must grapple with his dual identities as a member of the Spokane Indian Reservation and as a student at a predominantly white high school. Arnold refers to himself as a "part-time Indian," which serves as a critical commentary on the current condition of Indigenous peoples of the US, particularly those living on a reservation. This term emphasizes the way in which Indigenous peoples are often forced to straddle two worlds, leading to a sense of displacement and alienation. As I continue my essay, I will explore the idea of why Alexie believes he is a part-time Indian, and what this shows about …show more content…

This quote highlights the idea that Arnold is not fully accepted in either community, as his biracial identity creates a sense of otherness that is exacerbated by the cultural divide between the reservation and the white town. Arnold's struggle with his identity is a recurring theme throughout the novel and is a common experience for many people who grow up with a mixed racial identity. It is a feeling of not quite belonging to either community and feeling like an outsider. Furthermore, this quote also demonstrates the alienation and displacement that Arnold experiences as a result of his mixed identity. He is constantly forced to navigate the complicated cultural and social norms of both the reservation and the white town, and this struggle takes a toll on his mental and emotional well-being. Arnold's story is a powerful reminder of the challenges that individuals with mixed racial identities face in a world that often operates in black and white. Alexie's novel offers a glimpse into the complexities of identity and the challenges faced by those who do not fit neatly into one box. Arnold's journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of those who are forced to navigate the murky waters of racial

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