Modern Day

In terms of chronology, the story appears to be set contemporary to the time in which it was written, namely the early 1990s. Thematically, the story is conversant with the connections between Native American history and current Native American socioeconomic dynamics. Specifically, the story makes oblique references to the centuries of horrific genocide and oppression that Native Americans faced at the hands of the United States government. As a result, Native American communities generally face continued hardship and poverty in the modern day.

Reservation

Victor and Thomas reside on an unnamed Native American reservation, where they were born and raised. All of the reservation’s residents are members of the same tribe. Life on the reservation appears to be defined by economic hardship and generally low morale. Due to a general lack of money and resources, the residents of the reservation appear to be generally sad and...