Summary Of Charlie By Lee Marcle

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Literary Analysis of “Charlie” by Lee Marcle In the story “Charlie” by Lee Marcle, the author develops the theme that when one knows one's identity, no matter how systems attempt to destroy it, it will always be within them. This theme is conveyed through the use of varying sentence structures, symbolism, and diction, which can be particularly noted in its use when describing Charlie’s life in residential school, his daydreams during class, and his rigorous journey toward home. The diction, symbolism and sentence structure used when describing Charlie's experience in residential school demonstrates the struggle to maintain a connection to one's identity. For instance, the portrayal of the Indigenous children's daily interactions with their principal terrifies them: “‘EAT …show more content…

The usage of capital letters, one of only two, conveys a sense of authority, urgency, and aggression that in turn also contributes to building the oppressive atmosphere of the residential school system. The word choice of clicking evokes a mechanical connotation, suggesting that the principal operates like a robot, devoid of emotion, empathy and compassion toward the children. The symbolism of the principal as a wolf, a symbol that represents the most accomplished hunters in Indigenous culture, suggests that the children perceive him as a predatory figure. Charlie’s daydreams, presented using varying sentence structure, jubilant word choice, and symbolism highlight the excitement and belonging Charlie feels when he is connected with his identity. As Charlie experiences, “The first snow had fallen. It was that time of the year. The question reached out to him over the shrieks of joy and excited yelping of his dog, but it did not completely pluck him from the scene of his snow-clapped, wooden homeland” (Maracle 328). The varying sentence structure in this passage reflects the dynamic and vivid nature of Charlie's

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