Theme of Two Worlds in Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese

Richard Wagamese’s novel Indian Horse delves deeply into the theme of duality and dichotomy, portraying a world where two conflicting cultures—Indigenous and European—exist in a state of constant tension. This cultural divide not only shapes the overarching narrative but also profoundly influences the protagonist, Saul Indian Horse, as he navigates his life caught between these two worlds. By examining the cultural conflict and its effects on Saul’s identity and personal growth, we gain insight into the broader implications of this duality.

Conflict Between Indigenous and European Cultures

The novel vividly portrays the systemic conflict between Indigenous and European cultures, framing it as an ongoing struggle for dominance and survival. One of the most explicit manifestations of this conflict is the residential school system. These schools were designed to assimilate Indigenous children, stripping them of their cultural identities. Sister Ignacia, a character representing this oppressive system, openly declares, “At St. Jerome’s we work to remove the Indian from our children so that the blessings of the Lord may be evidenced upon them.” This statement encapsulates the institutionalized efforts to erase Indigenous culture and replace it with European values.

The conflict does not end within the confines of the residential school. As Saul grows older, the pervasive racism and xenophobia of the broader society become increasingly apparent. After a hockey game, Saul and his team, the Moose, are physically assaulted by white patrons simply for daring to share the same space. Virgil Kelly, a teammate, explains the incident: “The white people figure they got the right to make the Moose pay for it.” This moment highlights the deeply ingrained social boundaries that enforce cultural segregation and perpetuate violence against Indigenous people.

The Personal Impact on Saul Indian Horse

Saul’s journey is heavily influenced by the clash between these two cultures. From a young age, he experiences the devastating effects of this divide, both within his family and in the larger society. His parents’ adherence to conflicting spiritual beliefs creates tension, as his father clings to traditional Ojibway practices while his mother leans toward Christianity. This internal family conflict mirrors the larger societal struggle between Indigenous traditions and European assimilation.

“‘He would have said that all gods are one.’
‘She won’t hear that.’
‘Do you?’”

These conversations reveal the emotional toll of cultural dissonance on Saul, who becomes increasingly withdrawn. Alienated from both worlds, he struggles to find his place. His fluency in English, a skill gained from his time at the residential school, earns him the derogatory nickname “Zhaunagush” from his Indigenous peers, further isolating him. Meanwhile, he faces relentless racism from white society, leaving him caught in a liminal space where he belongs fully to neither world.

Saul's Struggle with Identity and Anger

The challenges Saul faces contribute to a deep internal conflict. His experiences at St. Jerome’s and in the wider world fill him with anger and resentment. At the residential school, he learns to suppress his emotions as a survival mechanism. “I retreated. That’s how I survived. Alone,” he reflects, revealing the psychological toll of this forced isolation. However, as he grows older, the weight of his unresolved anger begins to manifest in destructive ways.

Saul’s time at a bush camp introduces him to harsh labor and a toxic environment that exacerbates his growing bitterness. He remarks, “When I came out, I brought the intensity of the bush camp with me,” illustrating how his experiences have hardened him. This anger bleeds into his passion for hockey, transforming it from a source of joy and spiritual connection into a vehicle for aggression. “There was no joy in the game now, no vision,” Saul admits, marking a significant shift in his character. His inability to process his anger leads to strained relationships and ultimately, isolation.

The Role of Racism and Systemic Oppression

Racism and systemic oppression are central to the conflicts in Indian Horse. The residential schools represent a microcosm of the broader societal effort to dehumanize and control Indigenous people. The psychological and physical abuse Saul endures at St. Jerome’s is a direct consequence of this systemic racism. The school’s mission to erase Indigenous identity is not just an act of cultural genocide but also a means of perpetuating a hierarchical power structure that marginalizes Indigenous communities.

This systemic oppression extends beyond the residential school. The Moose’s encounters with racism during their hockey games highlight the pervasiveness of prejudice in every aspect of life. Saul’s experiences illustrate how deeply ingrained these biases are and how they continue to affect Indigenous individuals long after they leave institutions like St. Jerome’s. The societal norms that allow such behavior to persist create an environment where Indigenous people are constantly reminded of their perceived inferiority.

Saul's Path to Healing

Despite the immense pain and suffering he endures, Saul’s journey is ultimately one of healing and reconciliation. Wagamese emphasizes that true healing begins with acknowledging and confronting one’s pain. Saul’s decision to reject violence and seek peace marks a turning point in his character arc. When Virgil offers to take revenge on Saul’s behalf, Saul declines, recognizing that revenge would only perpetuate the cycle of pain and anger.

“Then, the more we got into it at the centre, the more I realized it was more than just him. I’d be hunting a long time if I lashed out at everyone. In the end, I learned the only one who I could take care of was me.”

This moment of clarity signifies Saul’s acceptance of his past and his commitment to moving forward. By focusing on his own healing, Saul breaks free from the burden of anger and begins to rebuild his life. His journey home and his reconnection with his community symbolize his reintegration into a world where he can find support and belonging.

The Power of Storytelling in Reconciliation

Storytelling plays a crucial role in Saul’s healing process. Throughout the novel, Wagamese highlights the importance of sharing personal experiences as a means of reclaiming identity and fostering understanding. Saul’s decision to tell his story is an act of empowerment, allowing him to confront his trauma and find peace. The novel’s opening line, “If we want to live at peace with ourselves, we need to tell our stories,” underscores this theme, emphasizing the transformative power of narrative in the face of adversity.

Through storytelling, Saul not only heals himself but also contributes to the collective healing of his community. His willingness to share his experiences helps others understand the profound impact of systemic oppression and the resilience of Indigenous people. By reclaiming his voice, Saul challenges the narrative imposed by colonial institutions and asserts his identity on his own terms.

Conclusion

Richard Wagamese’s Indian Horse is a powerful exploration of the duality and dichotomy between Indigenous and European cultures. The novel examines the devastating impact of cultural conflict on individuals and communities, while also highlighting the potential for healing and reconciliation. Saul’s journey from anger and isolation to acceptance and connection serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of confronting and sharing one’s pain. In the end, Indian Horse offers a profound message about the power of storytelling and the necessity of finding peace within oneself and one’s community.

References

• Wagamese, R. (2012). Indian Horse. Douglas & McIntyre.