Night of the Living Rez Literary Elements

Fiction

Set in Maine’s Native Community set in the context of what it means to be a Penobscot.

First-person narration in all stories by David

Heartbreaking and revelatory

The central character is David.

There is a conflict between David's past and present. In his childhood and adolescent stage, David was full of hope for a better future. However, his hopes conflict with the current reality because David lives in a confusing world. David is a drug addict, which is the best thing he can do to pass the time.

The climax comes when David becomes an adult and comes face to face with freedom of choice, as depicted in the stories “Burn” and “Get Me Some Medicine.” David and his friend realize they can drink alcohol and smoke without being questioned.

In the story “Earth, Speak,” David’s reservation for the dead foreshadows his mournful benediction and empathy.

Paige underestimates the capability of her younger brother to help her during times of emergency. However, David is intelligent and smart because he does everything within his power to aid her older sister to stability.

N/A

The depiction of the boyfriend of David’s mother is an ideal illustration of scent imagery in the book. Frick is described as a smelly man when the narrator says, “He smelled sour like old grape juice filled with snuffed-out cigarette butts.” Consequently, David implies that the best way he identifies his stepfather is through smell.

The primary irony is that Frick is not executing his role perfectly as a father figure. Frick is the boyfriend of David's mother, and he is expected to provide guidance and show David what it means to be a man. However, David is left free to explore the confusing world and becomes a drug addict.

N/A

Klonopon is used as a metonymy for freedom.

The author personifies Penobscot Nation when he says that it is emotional.