Jesse Thistle's Identity Quotes

Stephanie Chan
Ms. Di Loreto
NBE3U2G-a
Friday May 5th 2023
Jesse Thistle’s Road To Recovery Jesse Thistle struggled with his sense of identity from an early age, split between his desire to hide his Indigenous origin in favour of his supposed Italian lineage and his desire to embrace it. The value of maintaining family and cultural customs was instilled in Jesse by his grandparents. While his wife, Lucie, gave him love, support, and stability, his mother exposed him to cultural customs and teachings. Thistle's memoir, "From the Ashes," is a story of a young man's search for identity, which is shaped by his childhood experiences and the key people in his life, including his grandparents, mother, Lucie, and his wife, who ultimately help him

Jesse Thistle's grandparents were important in helping him appreciate his Métis background and find his identity. His grandfather taught him about their family history and the importance of their Métis identity. Jesse recalls his grandfather saying, "We are Métis, Jesse. Don't ever forget that'' (Thistle 85). This quote affirms Jesse's Métis background and encourages him to safeguard it, despite any difficulties. Additionally, it emphasises the determination and pride of the Métis people, who have endured marginalisation and prejudice throughout history. His grandparents often taught him the customary Métis ways of trapping, fishing, and hunting. "I loved those moments with him, just like I loved learning to make traditional food with my grandmother" (Thistle 86). Jesse was able to connect with his culture through these activities and grow to be proud of who he is. The word "loved" is used to emphasise Jesse's emotional attachment to his culture and to imply that being Métis is not simply a part of who he is but also something he

Lucie brought Jesse traditional Métis dishes while he was in recovery and told him tales about his ancestors. "Lucie was my anchor to my past, my people, and my own spirit. She was my strength and my foundation, my reason for living" (Thistle 200). Jesse emphasises the significance of his relationship with Lucie in his quest to accept his identity by claiming that she is his "reason for living." The importance of having a solid support system in one's life is illustrated by this remark, especially when regaining one's identity and cultural heritage. Jesse decides to begin learning Michif after a trip to see his grandparents gives him a fresh feeling of pride in his heritage. Lucie encourages his choice and even assists him in locating materials to learn the language. "Lucie knew how important it was to me and she was always there to support me" (Thistle 202). Jesse implies that his wife not only understood the importance of his being a Métis, but also recognised and acknowledged it. This exemplifies the significance of understanding and affirmation in the process of forming an identity. The fact that Thistle refers to Lucie as "always there to support me" further highlights the constancy and dependability of her assistance, implying that her presence in his life was crucial in enabling him to completely