Essay Questions

How does the novel use nature and the environment to symbolize the characters’ internal states and their journeys toward healing?

Clara’s walks through the trails while observing nature symbolize the connection to her heritage and the healing power of the natural world. The changing seasons and the vibrant environment around Mariah’s cabin illustrate Clara’s emotional state toward peace. Additionally, Kenny’s time spent on the water represents his quest for escape from the confines of his past. The sea’s vastness and the orca during his escape symbolize both the danger and beauty of his journey. The sweat lodge with its elements of fire, steam, and enclosed space acts as a physical space for purification and renewal. This ceremony represents the characters' collective efforts to cleanse themselves of their traumas. The novel uses these natural settings and elements to highlight the characters’ emotional journeys. It illustrates the connection between the environment and personal healing. Through their interactions with nature, the characters find a sense of continuity with their cultural heritage.

What strategies do the characters use to reclaim their autonomy and sense of self in the face of systemic oppression?

The novel delves into the characters as they navigate the aftermath of their traumatic experiences at the residential schools. Each character's journey illustrates different strategies for reclaiming autonomy. Clara finds resilience through activism while connecting with her community. By participating in protests and cultural ceremonies, she reclaims her voice by turning her pain into a source of strength. Maisie’s path is marked by struggles with addiction, but she demonstrates strength by striving for sobriety. Her journey emphasizes the meaning of redemption and the ongoing battle many survivors face in overcoming their past. Kenny’s travels and his return to his roots highlight an emotional journey towards self-discovery. His spirit is seen in his quest to understand his identity and find peace within himself. The novel portrays resilience as a collective effort supported by community, culture, and shared experiences.

In what ways does the novel illustrate the long-term impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous identity as it manifests in the characters' lives?

The residential schools’ enforced assimilation policies lead to a significant loss of language and cultural practices among the characters. This loss creates a sense of alienation as seen in Kenny’s struggle to reconnect with his Indigenous identity. The characters’ family relationships are deeply affected by their experiences. Maisie’s strained relationship with her children and Lucy’s difficulty forming stable bonds highlight how the trauma of the residential schools disrupts familial cohesion. The novel depicts how the residential schools have caused a dislocation within the broader Indigenous community. Clara’s involvement in cultural revitalization efforts demonstrates a response to this displacement. These impacts are manifested in the characters’ ongoing struggles with identity, trust, and belonging. The novel emphasizes the legacy of the residential schools and the efforts required to rebuild community cohesion.