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The Analysis of The Story "Totem" by Thomas King

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Published: Mar 3, 2020

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References:

• Thomas king (2013, Totem, retrieved from One Good Story, That One: Stories. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, Project MUSE. https://muse.jhu.edu/.)

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Totem by Thomas King Short Story Analysis

The realities of colonialism and First Nations history must be acknowledged in order for reconciliation to take place in this nation. The story "Totem" by Thomas King utilizes this theme and acts as a reflection that acknowledges the history of the First Nations on their territory. The totem symbolizes how Canadian history and people overlook the truth about the colonialism of the First Nations people. By employing various metaphors in  “Totem”, Thomas King reveals how the abuse towards the totem in his narrative reflects how a settler-dominated society ignores and mistreats First Nations people, culture and religion.

The narrative "Totem" takes place in the Southwest Alberta Art Gallery and Prairie Museum, where a totem makes seemingly obnoxious sounds. The museum's staff unanimously agrees that the totem should be removed since they feel that it is out of place, "This totem pole isn't part of the show," Walter explains, "and we need to move it some place else“ (King 14). The museum's staff represent the tyranny of the Canadian government, which forcibly evicted First Nations people from their ancestral lands and put them on temporary reserves and residential schools. The plot revolves around the Canadian government's failure to address the challenges and existence of First Nations people. The problems that First Nations people face in Canadian society are well-known, yet, like the totem in the narrative, they are mostly neglected.

King's metaphors and literary devices further show how the Canadian government refuses to embrace the truth about First Nations culture and history. When the totem begins making loud sounds, the staff claims the totem will be interfering with their show, “We can't have it making noises in the middle of a show on seascape,” (King 15). Instead of being concerned for the totem’s wellbeing, the staff is far more concerned that the totem would disrupt the show's tranquilly. The narrative mirrors how the Canadian government does not want First Nations people "making any noises" because it will disrupt the quiet of the White-dominated society they have created. This is why the government disregarded the First Nations' history, culture, and cries for assistance. The totem just becomes louder and angrier as a result of the story's resistance and lack of respect. It exemplifies how First Nations people have been ignored and marginalized in Canadian culture. Instead of allowing the totem to be placed in its proper location, the staff decided to cut it down, as Jimmy explains: "we could get the chainsaw and cut it off close to the floor" (King 15). This is a metaphor for the cultural genocide that occurred at residential schools when the government chose to separate First Nations people from their families, languages, culture, and traditions. This shows how, just as the totem was taken down and put in the basement, the reality of First Nations culture and history was not only disregarded but also erased to conceal the truth. 

One method to achieve reconciliation is for the government to identify the major concerns in First Nation communities and to take steps to ensure that they do not happen again. Instead of suppressing the truth, King employs an indirect way to narrate Canadian history, unblocking all facts and advocating for truth and reconciliation. When the totem is taken down to the basement, it resists every time by making different sounds. The staff resolve to ignore the totem in the hopes of it ceasing to bother them, reasoning that "maybe if we ignore it, it will stop singing." and that maybe “It might even go away or something" (King 17). The staff makes no effort to accept the totem or compromise the area, showing that they are reluctant to change their minds about the totem and accept it as is. When the Canadian government conquered the territory of the First Nations, they violated their human rights, and the totem decided to sing at the conclusion of the narrative as a method of healing from the trauma.

The morning after the first totem is taken from the gallery, a new totem arises with different noises than the previous one, and Larue states that it "does sound like grunting." It doesn't sound like the other one” (King 16). It interprets the many tribes' desires for social obligations, education, and land rights in the First Nation society. To achieve Reconciliation for First Nations and to make progress toward a more happy and improbable future, it is necessary to address the realities rather than to hide from them. For more than a century, Canadian authorities removed thousands of Indigenous children from their families and sent them to residential schools with the goal of severing Indigenous familial and cultural connections and assimilation into white Canadian culture. (Via Aljazeera)

In essence, the message King argues through the extensive use of metaphors and symbolism in his narrative is that having an open and honest discourse about Canada's racist history and the culture of Indigenous Peoples will provide helpful tools for developing and sustaining an understanding of each other's cultures and traditions among Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in this country. The absence of respect lies at the heart of King's message. One strategy to achieve truth and reconciliation is to enlist the help of all non-Aboriginals and work to improve the representation of First Nations people. Besides reading literature that reflect on the residential school experience, watching films and documentaries, attending cultural events, and learning about the history of residential schools are also effective strategies for achieving truth and reconciliation. Furthermore, thinking on the challenges that the First Nations have encountered throughout time will aid in the preservation and transmission of traditions to future generations.

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Analysis of the Short Story 'Totem' by Thomas King

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Book Review

The Analysis Of The Story “Totem” By Thomas King

Totem by thomas king.

Thomas King’s short story “Totem” is a symbolic attack on Canadian colonization and the struggles faced by the Aboriginal people. He has used symbols to narrate the story,” Totem poles” as a symbol to describe the Aboriginal community of Southern Alberta, “Museum” as land, “Director and Staffs” are the government, “Art” in the museum is considered as the Canadian culture. The characters in “Totem” by Thomas King play a special role in striking the theme of the story. “Totem” is about the land of the first nations, yet they are forced into reserves and have their very existence thought of as nothing more than a hindrance to the government and colonized people.Story begins with Beebe Hill, at the reception to make a complaint: “she thought other people were annoyed, too, but were too polite to complain about the noises the totem pole in the far corner of the room was making” (p. 13).

Mrs. Hill represents the population of the European settlers moving into Canada and finding Aboriginal people living there. Totem poles were considered as ugly, noisy and weird, wanted to remove them. People represent the majority of citizens, she represents the majority, she hears only their concerns, minority, ‘totem pole’ is considered as noisy. “Walter assures her that this show is about the contemporary Canadian arts from the Atlantic Provinces”. (p. 13)

Author states that there is no place for the totem as they are not part of the present culture and tradition. They are not supposed to be living here as they should be in the reserve. Mrs. Hill who represents the majority wants totem pole to be sent away as they start representing themselves in the museum in the form of “sculptures, paintings and photographs”, because art in the museum represent a rich culture. Thomas King is using this as, how the colonization showing racists attitude to the Aboriginal population.“It doesn’t make any sense,” he said, “because the floors are concrete. I was here when they built this building, and I don’t remember them pouring the floor around a totem pole,” “We could get the chainsaw and cut it off close to the floor”(p. 15).

Here again affirms that the totem pole were thrown out from their land, no way they could be here with the general population. They are finding an easy solution by removing the aboriginals from the rest of the population and throwing them in the reserve or in the prison. Government again taking a silent stands on the aboriginal peoples rights, giving consent to the majorityto do whatever they want but do .Here we are going to discuss about the oppression faced by the Aboriginals. Walter, the head of the museum found a quick, and easy temporary fix; his plan is to chop the totem pole down with a chainsaw and move it down to the basement. However to the surprise of Walter and his workers, “’There is a totem pole in the corner, and it’s grunting.” (p. 16).

Another totem pole appeared and it was making even more noise. Walter continued with his easy fix of cutting the totem poles down until he did not have any more room in the basement to store them. Thomas King uses satire to point how ridiculous of solution moving the Aboriginals to a place where they don’t belong to. Canadian government is not finding a real solution to the problem, but trying to live with the problem.

As a conclusion Thomas king brilliantly used symbols, irony in Totem to convey the oppression Aboriginals are experiencing from the government and colonization. King uses effectively museum and art as way to present the oppression faced by the Aboriginals. He is in every way succeeding in mocking the government, colonization and their attitude towards the Aboriginals.

References:

• Thomas king (2013, Totem, retrieved from One Good Story, That One: Stories. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, Project MUSE. https://muse.jhu.edu/.)

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Totem (Allegory Explained)

Totem is a term that is often used to describe a symbol or object that represents a group of people or a particular culture. It is a common theme in literature, art, and mythology, and is often used as a way to convey deeper meanings and messages. In many cases, totems are used as allegories , which are stories or narratives that have a hidden meaning or message.

Allegories are a powerful tool for conveying complex ideas and themes, and totems are often used as a way to create these allegories. By using a totem as a symbol, writers and artists can create stories that convey deeper meanings and messages, often about the human condition or the nature of society. For example, the totem pole is a common symbol in Native American art, and is often used as an allegory for the history and traditions of the people who created it.

Understanding the meaning and significance of totems and allegories is an important part of understanding the role that they play in literature, art, and culture. By exploring the ways in which totems are used as allegories, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling and the ways in which it can help us to understand the world around us.

Understanding Totem Symbols

Cultural Significance

Totems are symbols that are deeply rooted in the culture of many indigenous peoples. They are often used to represent a particular clan or family, and are believed to have spiritual significance. The use of totems is not limited to Native American cultures, as totems can also be found in African, Asian, and Australian Aboriginal cultures.

Common Totem Animals

Many totems are represented by animals, which are believed to possess certain qualities that are important to the group or individual they represent. Some common totem animals include the bear, eagle, wolf, and turtle. The bear is often associated with strength and courage, while the eagle is seen as a symbol of freedom and power. The wolf represents loyalty and teamwork, and the turtle is associated with wisdom and longevity.

Interpreting Totem Poles

Totem poles are a common form of totemic art, and are often used to tell stories or convey important messages. Each symbol on a totem pole represents a different aspect of the story being told. For example, a totem pole might include a bear, which represents strength and courage, and a wolf, which represents loyalty and teamwork. The order in which the symbols appear on the totem pole is also important, as it can indicate the importance of each symbol in the story.

Overall, totem symbols are an important part of many indigenous cultures, and are deeply rooted in their spiritual beliefs and traditions. By understanding the cultural significance of these symbols, we can gain a greater appreciation for the rich diversity of human culture.

Totem as Allegory

Historical Context

Totem by Thomas King is a short story that discusses the conflict between First Nation people and the dominant Western culture in Canada. The story must be understood as an allegory of the strained relationship between Western culture and First Nation culture in Canada — before and today. The story is set in the 1960s, a time when the Canadian government was actively trying to assimilate First Nation people into Western culture through the Indian Act. The story reflects the tension and conflict between these two cultures during this time.

Literary Devices in Allegory

The story uses various literary devices to convey its allegorical meaning. The totems in the story are personified and given the ability to make sounds, move, and express emotion. The distinct sounds they make throughout the story are meant to represent specific emotions and reactions to their experience in conflict with the Canadian government. The totems, therefore, serve as a symbol for the First Nation people and their struggle to maintain their cultural identity in the face of Western assimilation.

The museum in the story also serves as a symbol for the land that has been taken from the First Nation people. The Director and Staff of the museum represent the Canadian government and their attempts to control and manipulate the narrative of First Nation history. The story’s protagonist, Walter, represents the First Nation people and their struggle to resist assimilation and maintain their cultural identity.

Overall, Totem is a powerful allegory that reflects the historical and ongoing struggle between Western culture and First Nation culture in Canada. The story’s use of literary devices serves to highlight the complexity and nuance of this struggle and the importance of cultural identity and resistance.

Analyzing Totem Allegories

Character Analysis

In Totem, the characters are used to represent different ideas and concepts. The protagonist, for example, is often seen as a symbol of hope and perseverance. Meanwhile, the antagonist is often seen as a symbol of oppression and greed. By analyzing the characters in Totem, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the allegory’s underlying themes and messages.

Symbolism in Totems

Totems are used throughout the allegory to represent different ideas and concepts. For example, a totem may represent a particular animal or natural element. By examining the different totems used in the allegory, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the symbolism at play. Additionally, the use of totems can help readers to better understand the themes and motifs present in the allegory.

Themes and Motifs

The themes and motifs present in Totem are numerous and complex. Some of the most prominent themes include the struggle for power, the importance of community, and the relationship between nature and humanity. Meanwhile, some of the most common motifs include animals, natural elements, and cultural symbols. By analyzing the themes and motifs present in Totem, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the allegory’s underlying messages and meanings.

Totem in Modern Context

Totem in Literature

In modern literature, the concept of totem is often used as an allegory to represent a person’s identity, beliefs, and values. For example, in Margaret Atwood’s novel “The Blind Assassin,” the protagonist’s totem is a blue iris, which represents her individuality and uniqueness. Similarly, in the novel “The Clan of the Cave Bear” by Jean M. Auel, the main character’s totem is a cave bear, which symbolizes her strength and courage.

Totem in Film and Media

Totems are also frequently used in films and other forms of media as symbols of identity and belonging. In the movie “Avatar,” the Na’vi people have a totemic connection to the natural world, which is symbolized by their bond with the flying creatures known as banshees. In the television series “Teen Wolf,” the main character’s totem is a werewolf, which represents his power and strength.

Overall, the use of totems in modern literature, film, and media highlights the importance of identity and belonging in contemporary society. By using totems as symbols of individuality and community, these works of art encourage viewers and readers to explore their own identities and connect with others who share similar beliefs and values.

Creating Your Own Totem

Creating a totem can be a fun and fulfilling activity that allows people to express themselves in a unique way. Whether it’s for personal use or as a gift for someone else, designing a totem requires careful consideration of the symbols and meanings that will be incorporated into the design.

Steps to Design a Totem

The following are some steps that can be taken to design a totem:

• Decide on the purpose of the totem. Will it be used for personal or spiritual reasons? Will it be given as a gift to someone else?
• Choose the symbols that will be incorporated into the design. These symbols should be meaningful and relevant to the purpose of the totem.
• Sketch out the design on paper or using a digital tool. This will help to visualize the final product and make any necessary adjustments.
• Choose the materials that will be used to create the totem. This can include wood, stone, clay, or other materials.
• Begin creating the totem, using the design as a guide. Take your time and pay attention to details to ensure a quality finished product.

Choosing Your Symbols

When choosing symbols for a totem, it’s important to consider their meanings and significance. Some common symbols and their meanings include:

• The eagle: represents strength, courage, and freedom
• The bear: represents strength, power, and protection
• The wolf: represents loyalty, family, and teamwork
• The turtle: represents longevity, wisdom, and patience
• The owl: represents wisdom, intuition, and mystery

Other symbols can be chosen based on personal beliefs, experiences, or cultural traditions. By carefully selecting symbols and incorporating them into a totem design, individuals can create a powerful and meaningful work of art.

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Literary essay – Totem

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Analysis Of Totem By Thomas King

 The Analysis of Authoritative Relationships between Indigenous and non–Indigenous People in King’s “Totem”

In the short story “Totem” by Thomas King, the relationship between the totem pole and the museum workers is predominantly negative. The relationship between the totem pole and the museum workers is depicted as being overpowering, authoritative, and entitled when the workers unceasingly try to remove the totem pole from the museum. Ultimately, the totem pole symbolizes the struggles, resilience, and perseverance of the Indigenous people in Canada.  

In King’s short story, the museum workers are continually trying to remove the totem pole from the museum as Walter, one of these workers, states, “” the totem pole is not part of the…show more content…

This shows that the museum is built around the totem pole and, therefore, the workers do not have ownership of the totem pole and the right to remove it.  Walter Hooton, more often than any other worker, tries to get the totem pole out of the museum.  His reason for removal of the totem pole is that, ““this totem pole is not part of the show, and we need to move it someplace else”” (King 14). This further demonstrates the dominating nature that the museum workers feel they have over the seemingly problematic totem pole. Rather than embracing the totem pole, the workers want to remove it as it does not fit into their vision of the rest of the exhibit.  Coincidently, this is how the Canadian government treated the Indigenous people of Canada by trying to assimilate and potentially abolish them from our history.  The museum workers believe they have dominance over the totem pole and with each attempt to destroy it, in time, it grows back stronger than the last. Another example of the controlling nature of the museum’s workers is that even though the basement of the museum was overcrowded it did not stop the workers from continuing to relocate the old totem poles in the storage room. This example is a parallel to how the Canadian government treated the Indigenous people when they were forcefully removed from their homes and relocated to inadequate housing often separated from their families.  On their fourth attempt to rid the

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Frank Bruni

Donald trump is you and you and you.

By Frank Bruni

Mr. Bruni is a contributing Opinion writer who was on the staff of The Times for more than 25 years.

Donald Trump contains multitudes.

Are you a Black voter enraged by criminal justice inequalities? He feels your pain. He knows your pain. In a Manhattan courtroom recently, he confronted what you confront: same stacked deck, same disrespect. Or at least that’s a perspective that Trump’s allies have promoted since a jury said “guilty” 34 times.

Do East Coast elites look down their upturned noses at you, and does the big bad federal government try to quash any actions you take or words you utter in defiance of it? Him, too! When federal agents came for those classified documents scattered like pocket change around Mar-a-Lago, they were really coming for you. They used Trump to teach you a lesson and flexed their contempt for you through their indictment of him. He has made that claim repeatedly .

In a fund-raising email sent by his campaign last week, Trump said, “If we fail to have a MASSIVE outpouring of patriotic support — right here, right now — they’ll TAKE ME OUT and move on to their real target: YOU!!”

And all the Jesus Christ allusions of late by Trump and his disciples? No ambiguity there. No subtlety. He is dying — well, going through a tough time with titanic legal bills — for your sins. But you can always make things better by buying a $59.99 Trump-branded Bible .

“The transformation of Trump from a person to a symbol is the key to understanding the power of the MAGA movement,” wrote Robert P. Jones, the president and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute, in a Substack post this month. “Trump the Totem” was the headline.

While Jones rightly registered an intensification of that transformation since Trump’s felony convictions on May 30, the audacious, laughable and shockingly successful project of turning Trump — a playboy plutocrat and singular specimen — into Everyman has been central and crucial to his political ascent from the start.

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