Reservation Blues- Setting

The setting of Reservation Blues plays a key role in the development of the plot. The novel begins on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Spokane, Washington. As indicated by the work’s title, the reservation is a bleak residence. Surrounded by the magnificent Wellpinit Mountain and vast forests, visitors to the reservation frequently comment on its natural beauty. However, Thomas Builds-the-Fire often replies, “But you haven’t seen everything,” (Pg 6). Delving further into the small town on the reservation, the economic and social depression of the town becomes evident. Few stores exist, and the most successful brings in revenue mainly from its slot machines. The residents live in poorly made and half-finished government housing and only a small Indian Health Clinic exists on the property. Furthermore, there is a strong sense of resentment and bitterness towards the United States and Caucasians citizens. Thomas’ journal reveals his own harbored feelings when he creates “The Reservation’s 10 Commandments as Given by the United States of America to the Spokane Indians,” which lists the injustices his tribe has endured. At first, these feeling motivate Coyote Springs to achieve fame and wealth. The members of the band view musical success as a way to escape from the ordeals of the reservation. However, after returning to the reservation after a failed audition in New York City, the musicians are firmly reminded of the racial barrier that exists between Native Americans and whites. It is this discrimination that motivates Chess to propose to Thomas. She states, “I want my babies to look up and see two brown faces. That’s the best thing we can give them, enit?” (Pg 284). Although Chess and Thomas choose to leave, the experience of growing up on a reservation deeply impacts their plans for the future.

In addition, the reservation is filled with alcoholism. Not only do Victor and Junior spend their days in the local bar, but Thomas’ father is described as a “zombie” passed out drunk on the sidewalk. Likewise, depression and suicide also run rampant. The graveyard, filled with those who have taken their own life, is the one part of town that consistently grows. At the end of the novel, Junior becomes overwhelmed by memories of his white college girlfriend Lynn and the baby they almost had. Unequipped to deal with his emotions, he turns to suicide to escape from her rejection after she became pregnant. Perhaps if he had not been surrounded by constant suicides, as well as the looming racial barrier, Junior would have been able to work his feelings out.