My father was always depressed. When he was home and sober, he was mostly in his room

My father was always depressed. When he was home and sober, he was mostly in his room

Sherman Alexie is a renowned Native American author whose works often explore themes of identity, family, and the struggles of reservation life. In many of his stories, the presence of a troubled father figure is a recurring motif, reflecting the harsh realities faced by many Native American families. The quote "My father was always depressed. When he was home and sober, he was mostly in his room" encapsulates the complex relationship between fathers and their children in Alexie's works.

In Alexie's semi-autobiographical novel "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian," the protagonist, Junior, grapples with the challenges of growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Junior's father, like many of the fathers in Alexie's stories, is depicted as a troubled and distant figure. He struggles with alcoholism and depression, which often leads him to isolate himself from his family. Junior's father's absence, both physically and emotionally, leaves a void in Junior's life, forcing him to navigate the complexities of adolescence without a strong male role model.

The quote also speaks to the larger issue of intergenerational trauma within Native American communities. Many Native American families have been deeply affected by the legacy of colonization, forced assimilation, and systemic oppression. This trauma often manifests in the form of substance abuse, mental health issues, and dysfunctional family dynamics. Alexie's portrayal of troubled fathers reflects the ways in which historical trauma continues to impact Native American families today.

Despite the challenges presented by his father's depression, Junior finds solace in his love of drawing and his determination to break free from the cycle of poverty and despair that plagues his community. Through his art and his resilience, Junior is able to transcend the limitations imposed by his father's struggles and forge his own path towards a brighter future.