Throughout the novel The River Why by David James Duncan, the idea of what it means to be a native is discussed. The definition of native is to exist in, or belong to one by nature. However the true meaning of the word native, is someone who has become one with the land. Gus begins the novel as a callow young man. He is completely ignorant to his surroundings, and all that nature possesses. Gus accepts everything that the land gives him as something he is owed, and gives nothing back. As the novel progresses, Gus begins to see nature in a new light. Gus begins to use his "native capacities to their greatest extent," and through this he finds success and happiness. Gus gradually progresses to becoming a native, by finding an understanding and appreciation of environmental conscience, mortality, and solitude.

Gus knows during his youth that...