Keeper N Me Essay

Human beings are social creatures by nature, and socialisation between human beings is the driving force in shaping one’s identity. Social interaction and connection are basic aspects of living. In the novel Keeper’n Me by Richard Wagamese, the author explores the significance of social interactions in human beings through the protagonist Garnet Raven’s journey, illustrating how his character is profoundly influenced by his interactions with those around him. The Keeper’n Me explores how both positive and negative social connections can shape one’s identity. Garnet’s character is developed through family, community, and mentorship. Garnet’s character first develops when he listens and learns about his childhood memories and family history.

“We're still gonna be holdin' on to those missin' pieces of your puzzle for whenever you wanna pick 'em up an' use 'em. You should know that'' (Wagamese 73). This process allows Garnet to gain a deeper appreciation for his heritage by exploring his past and finding a sense of belonging that had been missing from his life and starts to fill in the gaps of his personal history. This reconnection to his cultural roots becomes a crucial aspect of shaping his identity. Later, Garnet faces rejection from his brother Jackie, who tells him that he belongs to the black community instead. “All of you should quit encouraging him. Tryin' to dance, tryin' to speak the language, tryin' to drum an'

During his time in foster care, Garnet faces stereotypes and challenges his sense of self while playing a neighbourhood game. “One time were busy getting up a neighborhood game of cowboys and Indians. Except back then it was "cow-boys and itchybums” (Wagamese 19). The disrespectful term used in the game, “cow-boys and itchybums”, embarrasses Garnet, and he becomes resistant to embrace his identity as an Indian. He attempts to fit into the white society and distances himself from being associated with the stereotypes people have commonly imposed upon Indians, he is doubtful and struggles to find his place in the world. Additionally, during his conversations with Lonnie in the streets of Toronto, Garnet reflects on his identity and confronts his feelings of displacement. "I felt all the shame and nervousness I always felt when I had to explain my history” (Wagamese 31). Through his conversations with Lonnie, he recognizes that his experience at the foster home has left him feeling lost and disconnected and shaped his character by reflecting on his past experiences and his displacements from his tradition. Ultimately, Garnet's experience with social connections, conflicts, and internal struggles shape Garnet’s character as he searches for his identity leading him to curiosity about his cultural identity by driving him to seek out a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the