"Dead White Writer on the Floor" and "Keeper'n Me" are both examples of Indigenous literature that employ humour as a postmodern stylistic device while incorporating elements specific to Indigenous storytelling.
In the first chapter of "Keeper'n Me," written by Richard Wagamese, we are given the point of view of an older variation of the main character, Raven Garnet. Throughout this chapter, Wagamese adopts a humorous tone and engages in self-deprecating humour by presenting themselves as an older man who has experienced many trials in life. An example being ¨Hard to find your way sometimes in life. Me, I'm just an old man that's been down many trails. How they say in them movies? The ones that got lotsa Mexicans bein' Indyuns? I lived many winters? Heh, heh,
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By poking fun at themselves, the authors can show the absurdity of these stereotypes and turn them on their heads. It is a powerful way to challenge harmful assumptions and start an important conversation about Indigenous representation in literature and media. Postmodernism is known for its playful and self-referential nature, often blurring the boundaries between reality and fiction. In the quote, the speaker adopts a humorous tone and engages in self-deprecating humour by presenting themselves as an older man who has experienced many trials in life. The reference to movies with "lotsa Mexicans bein' Indyuns" can be seen as a playful nod to the stereotypes and clichés often present in popular culture. The quote also incorporates elements of Indigenous literature through the reference to living many winters. Indigenous cultures often have a deep connection with nature and the passing of seasons, and the idea of living through many winters can symbolize a wealth of experience and wisdom. Indigenous terms, such as "Indyuns" (referring to Indigenous people), add a cultural dimension to the quote. Similarly, in