Literary Analysis of ko-ishin-mit and paw-qwin-mit by George Clutesi Prompt: How does the contrast between Paw-qwin-mit, a near perfect character, and Ko-ishin-mit, a troublemaker, allow for the story to have a different meaning to any age of child? “Ko-ishin-mit and Paw-qwin-mit” by George Clutesi is a story from the First Nations people of the West Coast. Paw-qwin-mit is regarded as the undisputed spear throwing champion for the whole region and is well liked by everyone. However, Ko-ishin-mit, the village boaster, foolishly believes that he can defeat the champion and is unpopular amongst the First Nations people of the area. The contrast between the two characters allows the story to have a different meaning to a child based on their stage of development. For younger children Paw-qwin-mit is most likely the center of attention and while the wording might be a bit tough at times for younger children the message is still the same. Paw-qwin-mit serves as a role model possessing many positive traits and contrasts the funny and naïve Ko-ishin-mit. Paw-qwin-mit, who is seen to be the hero of the story, is praised for his sportsmanship rather than just for winning (Pg. 141). It is also explained in a simple way …show more content…
Many parents let their children win in competitions but at some point all children have to come to the realization that they cannot always win and that, for the time being, there will always be someone better. Ko-ishin-mit boasts that he is the best but the narrator explains that everyone knows he has no chance (Pg. 139). Much like a parent would, Paw-qwin-mit does not take the competition seriously and uses a practice spear to ensure that Ko-ishin-mit does not get hurt (Pg.139). For some children this story could serve as a realization that they are not yet at a point where they could compete seriously and that it is important to be