The Marrow Thieves

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Relationships have been integral to human society since the beginning of time. Without them, there would be a lack of connection that aids in growing and learning through life. In The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline, the text demonstrates how the significance of relationships are crucial to the upbringing of the characters. On the contrary, the colonialism in this novel displays the damaging effects on relationships; stripping their culture severely alters communities in this dystopian text. ‘The Marrow Thieves’ portrays how relationships impact ones’ growth into adulthood through mentorship, love and education; relationships serve as a reminder of hope and is a significant lesson for the future of Indigenous youth. The mentorship Dimaline …show more content…

As French grows older, his sense of responsibility and protection over his family increases. Miig has immense trust in French and believes he is capable of taking over his role. Miig displays his trust by saying, “You’re just as good with that gun as I am. There’s no adventure out there left for me anymore. I’m done” (221). Dimaline shows how good leadership can result in strength and reliability; this serves as a good foundation towards growing relationships in the text. The growing relationship in this text shows how love can be provided as a source of strength. Love brings back nostalgic memories for French. By depicting French’s love for Rose with his family members, Dimaline shows the readers how deeply he feels for her. French’s feelings are palpable as he remembers his past: “It should be like grey could make noise” (160). Simultaneously, the connection between the two characters will humble French in order to help him realize his actions and behaviour. Dimaline portrays Rose as French’s exposure to realistic problems while refusing to abide in personal conflict; in return he realizes his behaviour and further …show more content…

The growing love and sense of newfound home are taught by our elders in the novel; Dimaline introduces this idea through the education Minerva provides for the family. Elders are heavily respected in the novel; they foster their families with knowledge from ancestors, thus flourishing their culture. Language is severely sought out for in the novel, this results in Minerva being heavily treasured to the family. Despite her quiet nature, Minerva had a strong spirit and stood her ground in dire situations. Her actions influence loyalty and strength, we see this when French says, “Then they dragged out Minerva, who stayed silent, whose smile was the last thing we saw as they turned through the doorway, whom we were sure we would never see again” (151). This brave sacrifice urged French to fight for his family. Moreover, Minerva’s last words, “Kiiwen” (211), had a great impact on French’s life. The revelation helped him realize his future was meant to be with Rose. Dimaline proves that the presence and education of elders are the greatest form of growth. The text repeatedly displays the wisdom Minerva has nurtured in French and the Indigenous

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