Something that really stood out to me while reading Indian Horse was how Richard Wagamese was able to reject the White Settler ideal of rugged individualism by highlighting through Saul’s life the importance of community. Rugged Individualism is a very white American term (coined by President Hoover during the Great Depression) that argues for self-reliance and independence from outside assistance. We usually see and hear stories that glorify the strength and triumph of the individual and how this individual (usually a white male) is able to overcome his problems alone. Wagamese subverts this ideal and shows in his novel how an Indian is able to gain strength and support from a community. Indian Horse shows us the power of interdependency that is typically missing from the colonizer’s tales of liberated individualism.
The lowest and darkest moments in Saul’s life are those when he is alone and has retreated into his shell. As a coping mechanism for his trauma, Saul opts for a solitary existence whether it be during his confinement at St. Jerome or his life as a migratory worker. Though, it is very visible though Wagamese’s words that when alone, there is a yearning within Saul for his friends and family. Saul’s soul longs for camaraderie and companionship and when he decides to accept help from others, he sees a positive change within himself. Saul’s encounter with Ervin Sift, his relationship with his counselor Moses, the Kellys, and his great-grandfather, all of these instances/interactions help him and us understand the power of community and the ability to heal and grow together rather than alone.
Indian Horse, I believe contradicts the mainstream white narratives that you need to do everything on your own and that strength is dealing with problems yourself without seeking the help of others. Saul’s story lets us believe that it is very okay to ask for and seek the help of others and not just in a personal sphere but professionally as well. Richard Wagamese heart wrenchingly explains to us that real bravery and strength lies with your community and this aspect of interdependency is where a person’s true self lies.