Throughout the history of the world, people have been bound to each other by geography, culture, experience and adversity. To work with your neighbor was to prosper, solidarity was not an option. Ironically, the very same things that brought people together, also pit them against each other, differing opinions and beliefs and values created friction and wars. In this day and age, diasporas by groups of people with differing cultures, beliefs, locations, and histories have brought these different peoples together here in America. But the same idea still applies: To work with your neighbor is to prosper, but difference brings adversity. Unity pushes society forward. But, how can those who do not share culture, status, or experience relate and …show more content…
Lewis and George live in two different worlds. However, they become friends despite racial differences that would have separated another pair of boys in their time. Instead of hiding or disregarding each other’s racial identities and differences, they accept them. Through the story of these two boys we find that true friendship comes from honesty and understanding. This abnormal relationship serves as an archetype not only for Indian-White relations, but for relations between any differing peoples, addressing issues of racial Identity, differences between races, and the importance of culture in interracial relationships.
Lewis’ view of himself and Indian culture as a whole plays a large part in his friendship with George, in both constructive and destructive ways. Initially, since he has become an outcast due to his Native heritage, Lewis appreciates George’s friendship deeply. However, for the majority of the book, his poverty is a source of shame, causing him to lie to George whenever George wants to visit his house. Even from the start of the story, Lewis has a very self-depreciating view of his Indian identity. “That two-foot braid just shouted ‘Reservation Kid Here,’ so I got rid