Nurse: You guys are like the Lone Ranger and Tonto. Thomas: We're more like Tonto and Tonto.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The characters reject the stereotypical dynamic of hero and sidekick in favor of shared marginalization.
- In plain terms
- They see themselves as equals in struggle, not a hero and helper.
- What can you take from it?
- Reject stereotypes that define relationships by power or role.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you define your role in a group?
- What stereotypes do you resist?
Another view
Avoiding the hero/sidekick role doesn't solve systemic inequality.
More from Sherman Alexie
Thomas: Sometimes it's a good day to die, and sometimes it's a good day to have breakfast.
Permalink to quote #4 Victor: White people won't respect you if you don't look mean. You have to look like a warrior, like you just got back from killing a buffalo. Thomas: But our …
Permalink to quote #6 Victor: Get Stoic.
Permalink to quote #3
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