Motorcycle And Sweetgrass Analysis

Comedy is a form of cognitive reappraisal, which Drew Hayden Taylor effectively integrates throughout Motorcycles and Sweetgrass to address tragic issues. Personally, I agree with Thomas King, that bombarding the reader with tragedy only results in their lack of interest. I believe that Taylor masters the use of humour to introduce sinister issues; he uses humour as a lubricating tool to ease the tension of the plot and maintain the readers engagement. Particularly, in chapter fourteen, I was intrigued by the way that Taylor glazes over the concept of the fallibility of humanity through Virgil's visit with Wayne. Due to their lack of knowledge, Virgil, and sadly, the entire population of Otter Lake, fall victim of humanity’s tendency to judge
In chapter fifteen, I enjoy how Taylor uses humour rather than cynicism to enlighten the readers of this issue. I find it comical when Maggie is, "… shocked to see all the shelves in the [refrigerator] lined with dark bottles of beer", and John explains how, "… you can't be much of an alcoholic unless you have some alcohol to drink. It's one of the rules". In my opinion, Taylor masters the use of irony to make light of alcoholism. It is ironic because alcoholics behave in a disorderly and chaotic manner; they definitely do not follow rules. However, humour is effective in highlighting Sammy's reliance on alcohol, like a ritualistic activity where he is bound by the rules of his own addiction. Through the use of the word ‘rules’, Taylor causes me to automatically think of obedience and respect. However, by associating this simple word with alcoholism, he combines irony and humour, while acknowledging the tragedy of addiction. I believe that humanity relies on structure and rules. Despite our denial, we crave boundaries because without them, we are subject to chaos and disorder. Therefore, I find it especially intriguing how Taylor thoughtfully incorporates the word ‘rules’ in association with alcohol addiction. It brushes over one of the themes in the novel, humanity’s addiction to order, and our
This is especially apparent in chapter seventeen when John lightheartedly explains to Maggie how he will, "… leave Sammy's window open later. He's a sound sleeper. The [mosquitoes] will have a feast”. This humourous quote is used to hint at the destructive effects of residential schools. I believe that the mosquitoes are a symbol of weakness, and how we are vulnerable to being consumed by burdens that feed off our strength. Through John's humourous comment to Maggie, and his promise to the mosquitoes, Taylor highlights Sammy's vulnerability to the scars and memories of residential school. The mosquitoes swarmed him, "…even though Sammy's personal aroma was as pungent as any can of mosquito repellent”. I am intrigued by the way Taylor is able to use humour in this line yet, is able to highlight how the mosquitoes are still attracted to Sammy because he hasn’t yet accepted his tragic past. This emphasizes the severity of the abuse that Natives endured at residential schools. It also evokes memories of the abuse my grandmother was subjected to in a convent in Italy. I remember her sharing stories of how she was barbarically tortured in the convent. Similar to Sammy, my grandmother is still haunted by her memories, and struggles with acknowledging her past. I believe that Taylor cleverly conceals this tragedy behind the humour of the situation. Taylor