An Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian Final Essay Who am I? Many times in our lives we have asked ourselves this question. We have pondered and pored over this question, searching for a definite answer, but little do we know that who we are isn’t described by a single word, phrase, color, shape, or idea, but by what tribes we consider ourselves to be in. For example, you can describe yourself by saying that you belong to the tribes of Hispanics, book lovers, procrastinators, leaders, nacho eaters, cheerleaders, fashionistas, and so many more. In the book, An Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian, Arnold Junior says: I realized that, sure, I was a Spokane Indian. I belonged to that tribe. But I also belonged to the tribe of American immigrants. And to the tribe of basketball players. And to the tribe of bookworms. And to the tribe of cartoonists. And to the tribe of teenage boys. [...] And to the tribe of funeral-goers. And to the tribe of beloved sons. And to the tribe of boys who missed their best friends. It was a huge realization. (Alexie 217) Each and every one of us has many unique tribes that define us and make …show more content…
Some may describe it as “walking in multiple words” at once. I find this as a very positive aspect because by becoming a member of more than one tribe, you are exposed to more experiences, cultures, insights, and adventures. You get to see what it’s like to be a part of something different other than what you’re used to. Even if you don’t like a tribe that you’re in, it is actually a blessing in disguise, as it helps you appreciate the other tribes that you’re in more. When Arnold went to Reardan, he introduced himself to a tribe outside his comfort zone, and though at first he didn’t like it, he ended up being exposed to many new customs, new expectations, and a new lifestyle (Alexie 61). When you “walk in multiple worlds” at once, you become more educated about the world around