Moon Of The Crusted Snow By Richard Wagamese

Aisha Abokar Ms Probst NBE3U.-02 June 14 2024 Literary Techniques in Moon of the Crusted Snow by Richard Wagamese Imagine a world where the familiar comforts of modern life vanish, and a remote Indigenous community must rediscover its cultural roots for survival. This is the premise of Richard Wagamese's novel Moon of the Crusted Snow. Wagamese masterfully uses literary techniques such as imagery and symbolism to explore the theme that all forms of healing and self-discovery are valid and must not be judged as good or bad. Wagamese uses vivid imagery to bring the harsh, beautiful landscape of the novel to life and reflect the characters' inner journeys. "The sky was a deep, unending blackness, dotted with countless stars that shimmered like

This image parallels the characters' journey towards self-discovery, as they navigate the unknown with hope and resilience. Additionally, "The snow covered the ground like a vast, unblemished canvas, waiting to be marked by the footsteps of those who journeyed across it" (Wagamese 45). Here, the imagery of the unblemished snow as a canvas represents new beginnings and the potential for growth. It suggests that the characters have the opportunity to create their own paths and narratives. This reinforces the theme that healing and self-discovery are personal and unique to each individual, without a set standard for how they should be achieved. Through these images, Wagamese emphasizes that the characters' paths to healing and understanding are as unique and varied as the natural world around them. Wagamese employs symbolism to deepen the reader's understanding of the characters' spiritual and emotional journeys. "The traditional drumbeat echoed in his heart, a connection to his ancestors and their timeless wisdom" (Wagamese 103). The drumbeat symbolizes the heartbeat of the community and the continuity of cultural

It suggests that the characters are never truly alone, and that they can find solace and direction from the spiritual world. This reinforces the idea that healing and self-discovery can come from acknowledging and embracing spiritual connections. The use of symbolism in these examples underscores the importance of cultural and spiritual connections in the characters' journeys towards healing and self-discovery. Wagamese uses contrast to highlight the differences between the modern world and traditional ways of life, emphasizing the need for a balance between them. "The flickering of the fluorescent lights in the community center contrasted sharply with the warm, natural glow of the fire outside" (Wagamese 65). This contrast between artificial and natural light symbolizes the tension between modern conveniences and traditional practices. The community's reliance on technology is challenged by the power outage, forcing them to reconnect with their traditional ways. This highlights the theme that healing and self-discovery often require a return to one's roots and an appreciation of simpler, more meaningful