Indian Island

Indian Island is the name of the island where the Penobscot Nation's reservation is located. Geographically, the island is separated "from the rest of the state of Maine" by the Penobscot River (1). Because Charles's late stepfather Fredrick was "an enrolled Native [man]," Charles was able to grow up on Indian Island with Fredrick and his mother Louise (1). He in turn saw this place as his home and felt that he belonged to the Penobscot tribe. In the narrative present, however, Charles lives on the opposite side of the river. He was forced to leave the reservation when he was 18. Since Mary left him and Fredrick died, he has had no ties to the place.

Charles sees Indian Island as a place of home and belonging. However, whenever he crosses the river and returns here, he is treated like an outsider.

Charles's House

Charles's house is one of...