Introduction to Narratology
Narratology, the study of narrative structure and how it affects our perception of stories, offers a fascinating lens through which to examine literature. In this essay, I’ll delve into Sherman Alexie’s short story “This Is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona,” focusing on how its narrative techniques contribute to the themes of identity, loss, and connection. By analyzing the point of view, character development, and temporal structure within the story, we can gain a deeper understanding of how Alexie constructs meaning in his work.
The Power of Point of View
The first aspect that stands out in Alexie’s narrative is its unique use of point of view. The story is told primarily from the third-person perspective but intricately weaves in elements that allow readers to access the inner thoughts and emotions of its protagonists: Victor and Thomas Builds-the-Fire. This duality enriches our understanding by presenting a broader view while simultaneously creating an intimate connection with each character.
Victor’s journey back to Phoenix after his father’s death illustrates a deep-seated sense of loss. His initial detachment from his father’s memory reflects not only personal grief but also a cultural disconnection—something many Indigenous people can relate to in contemporary society. In contrast, Thomas serves as a foil for Victor; he embodies hope and spirituality amidst despair. Through Thomas’s storytelling ability and unwavering belief in cultural heritage, Alexie emphasizes the importance of memory and shared experiences as means to cope with loss.
Character Development: More than Just Archetypes
When it comes to character development, both Victor and Thomas transcend typical archetypal roles found in literature. Victor initially comes off as stoic and somewhat bitter due to life’s challenges—losses compounded by socio-economic struggles faced by many Native Americans today. Yet as we follow him on this journey back home, we see him evolve into someone who begins to confront his past instead of running away from it.
Thomas Builds-the-Fire represents an essential thread connecting community stories with personal identity. His eccentricity is initially dismissed by others but ultimately reveals him as a custodian of culture—someone who has absorbed narratives that are crucial for healing not just himself but also those around him. As they travel together, their dynamic showcases different ways individuals cope with pain: one through avoidance (Victor) while the other seeks connection (Thomas). This juxtaposition highlights how varied responses can be when faced with similar circumstances.
The Role of Memory in Narrative Structure
The structure itself plays an instrumental role in conveying thematic depth within “This Is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona.” The narrative employs flashbacks interspersed throughout Victor’s journey—a technique that unveils layers within both characters’ histories without losing momentum or coherence in the present storyline.
For example, memories about Victor’s father serve not only as reminders but also catalysts for emotional growth throughout their trip; they transform from mere recollections into poignant reflections that urge readers (and characters) toward reconciliation. Each memory unearths aspects previously buried under layers of hurt—a representation not just about familial relationships but also broader cultural narratives steeped in trauma yet brimming with resilience.
Interplay Between Space and Emotion
A significant element Alexie explores is place—specifically how geographical locations resonate emotionally within narratives about identity formation among marginalized communities like Native Americans living off-reservation today. The journey towards Phoenix isn’t just physical; it symbolizes an emotional pilgrimage where each stop signifies confrontation with pain while seeking solace amid chaos.
Phoenix itself acts almost like a character—the ultimate destination imbued with complexity ranging from hope for renewal reflected by its name (‘Phoenix,’ after all) contrasted against harsh realities surrounding native existence within urban spaces laden with historical marginalization contexts—an irony captured beautifully through Alexie’s storytelling lens!
Conclusion: The Tapestry Weaving Us Together
In sum, Sherman Alexie’s “This Is What It Means To Say Phoenix Arizona” serves as more than just a tale about two men traveling across states; it’s layered narratively through point-of-view shifts combined with rich character arcs emphasizing vulnerability amidst loss while celebrating community ties rooted deeply within shared histories! This narratological analysis uncovers dimensions often overlooked at first glance yet integral for appreciating why such stories matter—not solely representing individual struggles but illuminating collective identities deserving recognition too!
References
- Alexie, S. (1993). “This Is What It Means To Say Phoenix Arizona”. In *The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven*. Grove Press.
- Narrative Theory: Core Concepts & Critical Debates by David Herman et al., 2011.
- Sutherland-Smith, W., & Varnava-Metcalf A., (2014). *The Routledge Handbook Of Narrative Theory*.
