The Role Of Tragedy In Richard Wagamese's Indian Horse

In Richard Wagamese novel, Indian Horse, the main character Saul experiences great tragedy in his life; because of this he has to discover some coping methods to allow him to put his life problems aside and focus on the road ahead. Although all of the methods allows Saul to “let loose” there were some that worked the least, better and best. In my opinion the least effective is drinking, then came reading which was better, and finally the very best was playing hockey. Overall, playing hockey was the best coping skill for the main character because it gives him a sense of support and allows him to open himself to others by making new friends and family.

Foremost, when Saul’s life starts to crumble by being stripped from his family and the …show more content…
For example, Saul discovers some secret talents when given a job by Father Leboutillier which was shoveling the ice rink. ¨I´d stand there, arms held high in triumph, and I would not feel lonely or afraid, deserted or abandoned, but connected to something far bigger than myself¨ (pg. ). This quotation means that this particular sport allows Saul to put aside all his past life problems and have some enjoyment and making new friends at the same time. Everything was contained in that glimpse until Saul was due to the objectionable fans and the concept of “the white guys game”. It wasn't until his perspective changed that he rediscovers his love of hockey. “ The white glory of a rink” (p.g 219) Saul uses this phrase to describe his feelings for the game of hockey. In my opinion he is meaning that even though he has bad times on and near the rink, it still carries memorable moments. Hockey gives Saul a sense of identity and that is lost if he does not hold it with him. Saul uses his sport as affection to gain acceptance to himself and the full community. Overall, hockey was the best coping method for saul. It gave him a sense of hope and