Multifaceted Traumas In Richard Wagamese's Indian Horse

Richard Wagamese's novel "Indian Horse" delves deep into the profound impact of trauma on the protagonist, Saul Indian Horse. Set against the backdrop of systemic oppression and cultural erasure, Saul's journey is marked by a series of harrowing experiences that shape his identity and sense of self. In this essay, we explore the multifaceted traumas Saul endures and their enduring effects on his psyche.

"I knew it was wrong to want to be Indian, to want to stay Indian when everyone else was trying to leave that part of themselves behind. I knew it was wrong because I was weak and looking backward, and I was wrong because I didn't care. I wanted to stay Indian." (Page, 19)Saul's longing to embrace his Indigenous heritage clashes with societal

His aspirations to honor his Indigenous roots through the sport are reflected in his desire to "play for them and make them proud" (Wagamese, 113), showcasing hockey as a means of reclaiming agency and pride. Unable to cope with the weight of his past, Saul turns to alcohol as a coping mechanism, perpetuating a cycle of self-destructive behavior. Through his struggle, he articulates his desire to "forget who I was, what I was" (Wagamese, 199), highlighting the profound impact of trauma-induced substance abuse on his sense of identity and

Jerome's robs Saul of his innocence and instills a profound sense of disillusionment. As he reflects, "I couldn't be any more part of it" (Page, 154), Saul grapples with the loss of his childhood innocence and the harsh realities of systemic violence. Saul's internalized racism and self-hatred reflect the insidious effects of colonialism on Indigenous self-perception. Despite his outward appearance, Saul feels disconnected from his Indigenous identity, expressing, "Inside I was white" (Page, 110), highlighting the complexities of racial identity and internalized oppression. Saul recognizes the intergenerational transmission of trauma within his family, underscoring the pervasive nature of colonial violence in Indigenous communities. As he reflects on his parents' legacy, he acknowledges, "They were walking around in bodies that had never been innocent" (Page, 202), illuminating the cyclical nature of trauma within Indigenous families. Despite the overwhelming challenges he faces, Saul finds solace and healing through reconnecting with his cultural heritage. Drawing strength from the spirit of the earth, Saul embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. As he reflects, "The key to my survival was to learn how to gather strength from the spirit of the earth" (Page, 219), Saul's journey illustrates the transformative power of resilience and cultural reclamation in the face of