Identity is a major theme. His stories often explore how Native Americans define themselves in the context of a dominant white culture.
The theme of community is also prevalent. In his stories, the Native American community plays an important role. It's a source of support, a keeper of traditions, and a place where characters find their place in the world. Whether it's a small reservation community or a more widespread network of Native Americans, the sense of community is strong and shapes the characters' lives.
In 'The Truth about Stories', a key theme is the subversion of dominant narratives. King challenges the mainstream stories that have overshadowed Native American voices. By presenting Native American stories, he shows how different perspectives exist. Additionally, the theme of connection through stories is present. Stories connect people across generations and cultures, and King shows how they can be a unifying force in a diverse world.
History and its impact on the present is a major theme as well. In 'The Inconvenient Indian', he explores how the past events of colonization and oppression still affect Indigenous communities today. He uses his novels as a way to expose the long - term consequences of historical injustices and to give a voice to those who have been silenced by history.
One common theme is the exploration of Native American identity. His stories often delve into the experiences and struggles of Native people in modern society. Another theme could be the relationship between different cultures, as he may depict the interactions and frictions between Native and non - Native cultures. Also, there is often a sense of humor intertwined with deeper messages in his short stories.
One main theme could be cultural clash. The story of Columbus represents the encounter between European and Native American cultures, and the coyote might symbolize the Native American side in this clash. Another theme might be the idea of discovery being re - evaluated. Columbus is often seen as a discoverer, but this story may question that view from a Native American perspective.
Identity and resistance are main themes. The mother's strong sense of her Blackfoot identity and her refusal to be defined in a way that goes against it is a form of resistance.
One main theme could be friendship. Thomas and his friends rely on each other, which shows the importance of friendship in their world. Another might be trust, as the title mentions 'trust Thomas'. They trust each other to do their jobs and help out on the railway.
One main theme is the subversion of the Columbus narrative. It questions the glorified version of Columbus's journey.
One of the main themes is creation. The turtle is central to the story of how the world came to be. Another theme is the relationship between nature and the spiritual world, as the turtle represents this connection.
Another theme might be resistance. If there are oppressive borders, the characters could be fighting against them, whether they are cultural, social or physical borders.
The theme of cultural heritage also stands out. Through the story, we can see how the characters' connection to their Blackfoot heritage is an important part of who they are, and they are not willing to let go of it even in difficult situations at the border.