"On the Amtrak from Boston to New York City." By Sherman Alexie
I can relate to the author on feeling bombarded by the want to be historic tour guide next to you. You didn't ask for any information or conversation, but you are in for an ear full. I have had to endure stories I really could care less about but had no where to escape to, trapped on public transportation. Why does there always seem to be an elder story teller who wants to shove their historical context down your throat. The author seems angry and would like to lash out, but does not. Instead, respects the elder enough to listen.
What really drew my attention to this poem was that the author is really angry and seems to hold resentment to the "white man." The author seems to resent what happened to his ancestors. If it were not for the Indians,being removed from the land and having to live on reservations, there would be no historical facts that this woman on the train speaks of. The author would like to know more of his native culture, he speaks as if there is not enough known to society, this angers the author. Yet, the author bites his tongue and shows kindness to the elder.
I can see you have a clear understanding of the resentment and anger of this work. Why do you think the author would write this piece? What is the intention? Consider the next analytic steps.
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