“What Sacagawea Means to Me” by Sherman Alexie and “Witness” by Andre Dubus – A Comparison
1. “What Sacagawea Means to Me” by Sherman Alexie – Introduction
“What Sacagawea Means to Me” is a poem written by Sherman Alexie, in which the speaker reflects on what the historical figure of Sacagawea means to him. The speaker begins by mentioning that Sacagawea was a Native American woman who helped Lewis and Clark on their expedition through North America. He then goes on to say that she is an important figure to him because she represents the coming together of different cultures. The speaker describes Sacagawea as being bi-gendered, animal-friendly, and government-supported. He also mentions that she is partly French-Canadian, which he finds interesting because his own heritage is partly French-Canadian.
2. “What Sacagawea Means to Me” by Sherman Alexie – Theme and symbolism
The main theme of “What Sacagawea Means to Me” is the importance of cultural diversity. This is evident in the way that the speaker describes Sacagawea as being a symbol of the coming together of different cultures. The poem also highlights the importance of understanding and respecting other cultures. This is seen in the way that the speaker talks about how he finds it interesting that Sacagawea is partly French-Canadian. By showing respect for her culture, he is able to learn more about his own heritage.
The symbolism in “What Sacagawea Means to Me” is also significant. The most obvious symbol is Sacagawea herself, who represents the coming together of different cultures. Other symbols in the poem include animals, which represent innocence and purity, and the government, which represents support and protection.
3. “Witness” by Andre Dubus – Introduction
“Witness” is a short story written by Andre Dubus, in which the narrator reflects on a time when he was witness to a crime. The narrator begins by describing how he was walking home from work one night when he saw two men arguing with each other. One of the men then pulled out a knife and stabbed the other man. The narrator describes how he felt scared and helpless, and how he wished he had done something to stop the attack. He then goes on to say that he has never forgotten what he saw that night, and that it has changed the way he looks at life.
4. “Witness” by Andre Dubus – Theme and symbolism
The main theme of “Witness” is the importance of doing what is right, even when it is hard. This is evident in the way that the narrator regrets not doing anything to stop the attack. The story also highlights the importance of being a good witness. This is seen in the way that the narrator describes how he has never forgotten what he saw that night. The story also contains elements of suspense and horror, which add to its overall effect.
The symbolism in “Witness” is also significant. The most obvious symbol is the knife, which represents violence and death. Other symbols in the story include the two men, who represent good and evil, and the darkness, which represents fear and danger.
In conclusion, “What Sacagawea Means to Me” by Sherman Alexie and “Witness” by Andre Dubus are both works that deal with important themes. They both contain symbolism that adds to their overall effect.