Identity In The Novel, There, By Tommy Orange

There Essay Sofia Szollosi Mrs. Clark Generational differences contribute to identity and play a large part in decision-making and self-image. In Tommy Orange's novel There There, identity is a central idea represented by the characters in the story, among these characters are Edwin Black and Bill Davis, whose lives offer two different perspectives of urban indigenous culture. Edwin Black is depicted as a character in the story There who seeks out his Native American heritage on his own. Edwin grew up in the present day and uses technology to learn about indigenous culture. “I’m just saying that. The internet has a lot to offer.”(There There ), Edwin speaks to his mom about the internet's value within his life. Although Edwin uses the internet as a tool to learn more about his culture, he also

He constantly feels disconnected from both his Native roots and the white world around him, in part due to his appearance and social difficulties, which are just some of the many generational challenges for present-day, urban natives to struggle with. “...Blue insisted he watch some powwow footage on Youtube so he’d know what he was getting into”(There, There, 259). Throughout the story, he develops his identity by helping plan the powwow and grow closer to his cultural roots, which in turn builds connections with other characters. Bill Davis is disconnected from the way things have changed in the world around him. Working the same job his entire life has become a crucial part of his identity, especially after being released from jail. “He immerses himself in his job. He likes to have something to do, to feel useful, even if that work, that job is currently in maintenance.”(There 81). Bill values working hard and making a living. Whether it is fighting in Vietnam or working at the Oakland stadium, he puts his time somewhere. Unfortunately, wherever he is, he struggles with