Themes
The two most major themes that are reoccurring for mostly all of Alexie's works is alcoholism and racism. Because Alexie only writes about Native Americans, he believe these two themes are the biggest hindrances on their lives. I believe that too as I know that this world is not the equal heaven everyone believes it is. We all have been discriminated and excluded our lives however, Indians got the worst of this all.
Alcoholism
Alexie consistently refers to Alcoholism as a theme in his stories. He says the Indians are plagued to drink their whole lives. This is their biggest flaw and it is not like it anything is going to change this cycle anytime soon. He too had a drinking problem, like his parents, but he conquered it. Alexie also states that the four top causes of death for Indians are all related to alcohol. So, it is clear that alcohol revolves around a Indian's lifestyle. "It's not alcoholism that makes me angry, it's the denial surrounding it" |
Racism
Racism is a recurring issue for any minority but as Indians are one of the smallest groups out there, they get the most chastised. Alexie refers to this theme not because it bring excitment to a plot, but because it is the reality that Indians face their whole lives. People make fun of them for not conforming, but the features people criticize you for is unchangeable. Features like skin color, eye shape, and even language. Alexie must be very vocal about this subject because it effects him everyday, even to this day when he is world renowned. |