While reading the second section of Reservation Blues, I immediately began to see a change in Thomas's character. Towards the beginning of the novel, Thomas seemed as though he was sensitive and caring. For example, when Victor smashed the guitar on the ground, Thomas began to cry, making the reader feel as though Thomas was very delicate. From the very start of chapter 3, I saw a bit of a change in Thomas. When seeing Chess and Checkers, Thomas asked Victor if he was aware of their presence. Victor says, "The one with the cowboy hat and big tits?" (56). After Victor says this, Thomas agrees with him and the group of men continued their foul conversation. I feel as though this simple statement shows a change in Thomas's character because Thomas went from being a sensitive person to one who agrees with men who speak in a derogative manner towards women.
Later in the section, I again noticed something peculiar about Thomas's character that reminded me of myself. When Checker's asked Thomas if he ever drank, he replied, "Look what it did to my father" (114). I feel as though just that statement alone is influential and shows that Thomas has learned from the mistakes of his father. This quote reminded me of myself because my family has had a terrible history of alcoholism and learning that it is an addictive trait in my family, I refuse to be like others and drink. These sections of Reservation Blues by Sherman Alexie show the reader character development of Thomas and how although his character has changed, he still remains educated of mistakes of the past.
I do have to agree with you in the first paragraph of your statement here, Sam, however I feel that most men are like this regardless and that he perhaps might have attempted to get along with Victor at the time. Regardless, he is definitely changing throughout the book, becoming the foundation of the band Coyote Springs. I believe that because he is the lead singer, he feels the weight of the others and must take charge. By taking charge, this must have altered his personality temporarily. I feel that, without the band, he would be able to cry yet again over a broken guitar.
ReplyDeleteFrancesco Pagano
I also believe that Thomas's character is changing but not so much negatively. I think he has grown as a person and he is my favorite in the book. Along with making the right life choices, I agree with you on how Thomas has learned from his dad's mistakes and that he will not make those same mistakes. I also do not conform with most of society when it comes to drinking. I don't follow the path of most people when it comes to alcohol and I don't drink.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you entirely about Thomas becoming less sensitive as the book goes on, but I also feel that his character is becoming more dynamic and less static as his relationship with Chess matures. I feel, like the previous comments said, that Thomas is growing as a person and part of that growing process includes going through a phase where he is not as sensitive as he may have been previously. I also commend Thomas on his ability to learn from the mistakes of others because I think this is something we should all try to do.
ReplyDelete