Reservation Blues Setting & Symbolism

Reservation Blues Objects/Places

Spokane Indian Reservation

This is the main physical setting of the novel. The Spokane Indian Reservation is in eastern Washington near the Spokane River.

Spokane, Washington

This is the nearest large city to the Spokane Indian Reservation.

Wellpinit, Washington

This small town is located on the Spokane Indian Reservation.

Benjamin Pond and Turtle Lake

Many people believe that these two bodies of water on the Spokane Indian Reservation have a subterranean connection. Some people believe that Turtle Lake is bottomless.

Doppelganger Bookstore

This is the name of the bookstore that Betty and Veronica own in Seattle.

Flathead Indian Reservation

This Native American reservation in Western Montana is the location of one of the band Coyote Springs's early performances. Here they meet Chess and Checkers Warm Water.

Arlee, Montana

This town in the vicinity of the Flathead Indian Reservation in western Montana was named after a Flathead Indian Chief. Thomas and Chess contemplate moving to this location after feeling unwelcome on the Spokane Indian Reservation.

Pike Place Market

This popular outdoor market in...
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