One-line Summary:
“There There” by Tommy Orange is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores the lives of twelve Native American characters living in Oakland, California, as they navigate their complex identities and confront the legacy of colonization.
The Power of Identity and Belonging
“There There” delves into the theme of identity and belonging, particularly for Native Americans who have been marginalized and oppressed throughout history. The novel introduces twelve characters, each with their own unique experiences and struggles, as they grapple with their Native American heritage and what it means to be indigenous in a modern world. From Tony Loneman, a young man with a physical disability, to Opal Viola Victoria Bear Shield, a woman searching for her lost sister, the characters are connected by their shared ancestry and the desire to find a place where they truly belong.
As the story unfolds, the characters’ journeys intersect at the Big Oakland Powwow, an event that promises to bring them together and celebrate their culture. However, as the powwow approaches, tensions rise, and the novel builds towards a climactic and tragic event that forces the characters to confront the harsh realities of their lives and the ongoing effects of colonization.
The Legacy of Colonization and Cultural Loss
Tommy Orange skillfully weaves the theme of colonization throughout the narrative, highlighting the lasting impact it has had on Native American communities. Through the characters’ stories, Orange explores the loss of language, traditions, and cultural practices that have been eroded over time. He also sheds light on the intergenerational trauma experienced by Native Americans, as they continue to grapple with the consequences of historical injustices.
Orange’s portrayal of the characters’ struggles with addiction, violence, and poverty reflects the systemic issues that have plagued Native American communities for generations. By giving voice to these experiences, “There There” challenges stereotypes and misconceptions, offering a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of Native American lives.
The Power of Community and Resilience
Amidst the challenges and hardships faced by the characters, “There There” also explores the power of community and resilience. Despite their individual struggles, the characters find strength and support in their shared experiences and cultural heritage. Through their connections with one another, they discover a sense of belonging and a renewed hope for the future.
As the characters come together at the powwow, Orange emphasizes the importance of reclaiming and celebrating Native American culture. The powwow becomes a symbol of resilience and resistance, a space where the characters can assert their identities and challenge the narratives that have been imposed upon them.
Key Takeaways:
- The novel explores the complexities of Native American identity and the search for belonging in a modern world.
- It sheds light on the ongoing effects of colonization and the intergenerational trauma experienced by Native American communities.
- The power of community and resilience is a central theme, highlighting the strength found in shared experiences and cultural heritage.
“We are the memories we don’t remember, which live in us, which we feel, which make us sing and dance and pray the way we do, feelings from memories that flare and bloom unexpectedly in our lives like blood through a blanket from a wound made by a bullet fired by a man shooting us in the back for our hair, for our heads, for a bounty, or just to get rid of us.”
“There There” is a poignant and impactful novel that offers a fresh perspective on the Native American experience. Through its compelling characters and powerful storytelling, Tommy Orange invites readers to confront the legacy of colonization and to recognize the resilience and strength of Native American communities.
