Author's note: This is an essay about the themes in Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelson .The purpose is to point out the importance of nature in the book.
There are many themes in Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelson. Many of them are important, for example anger and revenge, but they were hardly brought about. I found the power of nature to be a rather pervasive theme.
The wilderness island setting for Cole's banishment and the Indian traditions surrounding the place demonstrate the importance of nature in understanding the environment, culture, and personal healing. Almost every chapter includes mention of a different animal. Each animal either teaches Cole a lesson or represents a symbol of greater hidden truths.
The author wants the reader to believe that nature indeed can reveal these hidden truths. For example, the beaver became a symbol for patients and perseverance. Another example is the eagle; it became a symbol of strength and freedom. And the whales became a symbol of wandering and searching for truth. Most important, of course, is the presence of the Spirit Bear as a symbol of nature's justice.
When Cole is mauled by the Spirit Bear after trying to attack it, his pride as well as his resistance to change are crushed and overwhelmed. He is incredibly humbled by this force of nature. He started to pay more attention to the environment around him. It was through this transformational process that he was able to heal and find a new path for his life.
Even though anger and revenge as well as forgiveness and healing were important, the power of nature appeared to be the main idea.
it was a great piece, but it could have been a little longer, it was great overall
ReplyDeleteExcellent piece i only found one mistake and good word choice. Mrs.Hanson might downgrade because it is a little short.
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