Critical Review by Poquette
Ryan D. Poquette specializes in writing about literature and has a bachelor’s degree in English. In his critical review of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown, published in Nonfiction Classics for Students by Gale in 2003, he discusses the techniques employed by Brown to enlighten readers to the common misconceptions about Native Americans in the early 1800s, and eventually see through them.
In his essay, Poquette points out how Brown uses several techniques to convey his ideas and open the mind of his audience, such as eyewitness accounts and direct quotes from the Native Americans. He also uses a three-part structure in the plot to set up hope and eventual despair for the underdogs. Poquette eloquently covers almost every aspect of the book, which many consider Brown’s best work, and presents it in an informative and non-biased manner.
Poquette describes how Brown uses eyewitness accounts from the Native people to tell their side of how the West was lost to them. Brown gives these accounts much impact by his use of language and plot. Poquette says, “Brown’s first weapon is language”. He often writes from the point of view of the Natives and uses their way of speaking, referring to trains as “iron horses”, and colonels as “Eagle Chiefs”. Poquette also points out how Brown refers to some American historical figures by what the Native Americans called them, such as calling General Custer “Hard Backsides” because he stayed in his saddle for long periods while chasing them. He says “Brown takes his reader deep into the Native American experience” and this helps the reader to better identify with the subject.
As the readers gain sympathy for the Native people, Poquette notes how Brown uses the plot in a three-part structure for many chapters: First, he introduces a character, usually a chief who has lost something, second, he explains the struggle of his tribe, and finally, he tells of their ultimate loss, despite all their efforts to either remain peaceful or fight. These methods have a tremendous impact by bringing the reader into the world of the Native Americans and then “crushing any hope the reader might have” for them.
Poquette’s review of Brown’s book is an accurate analysis of his work and accurately describes Brown’s agenda in an objective manner. His critique reminded me why I enjoy this book, and stirred me to want to read it again. I would definitely recommend this article to any person interested in reading Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown.
