Louise Erdich's "Tracks"

Paper Summary:

This paper examines Louise Erdrich's novel, "Tracks" about the starving Native American Chippewa tribe in North America moving toward extinction due mostly in part because of the Industrial Revolution. The path of Erdrich's novel consists of a series of tracks that connects the present to the past. It analyzes how through colorful characters and conscious detail, Erdrich portrays a realistic account of the struggles of the Chippewa tribe. It looks at how by consciously selecting descriptive details and portraying dynamic characters, Erdrich successfully reveals to the reader a side of Native American culture that is often not taught. and how she demonstrates the importance of culture and family, as well as the art of storytelling.

From the Paper:

"Tracks, is also a novel of sorcery and love within the traditional realm of the Chippewa people. Throughout the novel, there are several references to love and relationship triangles; Erdrich uses the character of Fleur to help make some of these situations real. Erdrich adheres closely to known Chippewa myth portraying her characters. She calls upon many legends to enhance them including animal folklore, evil forces, love medicine and Christianity, in constructing Fleur. Fleur is the traditional Indian woman in the story. She does not conform to the white ways and, as a result, conflict arises between her and Pauline. Pauline's dislike for Fleur is evident throughout the book. She despises her and attempts to spread unflattering rumors about her. Pauline's description of Fleur includes a wide range of emotions, ranging from hatred to respect to envy. Pauline senses that Fleur's spirit is stronger and more powerful than her own; therefore she never misses an opportunity to do her reputation harm. Pauline cannot help but observe Fleur; she is drawn to her."

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