STORY
3. This is a Story
by Jeannette Armstrong
SUMMARY
The
story "Kyoti" by Jeannette Armstrong unfolds along the picturesque
landscape of the Okanagan River, where the construction of a dam introduces a
thought-provoking narrative that blends environmental concerns with cultural
insights. This tale delves into the complex interplay between human development
and the natural world, while also touching on themes of resilience and the
preservation of indigenous traditions.
Set
near the Okanagan River, the story introduces us to the central character,
Kyoti, an indigenous woman who has lived her entire life in harmony with nature
and her cultural heritage. The river serves as a lifeline for her people,
providing sustenance and spiritual connection. However, the calm rhythm of life
is disrupted when plans for constructing a dam are unveiled.
The
impending dam's construction symbolizes human intervention in the natural
order, signaling a potential threat to the delicate ecosystem and the
indigenous way of life. Kyoti, like the river itself, embodies resilience and
resistance in the face of change. She represents the voice of her people,
advocating for the preservation of their ancestral lands and traditions.
As
the dam's construction progresses, Kyoti's determination to protect her
heritage intensifies. She recognizes the significance of the river beyond its
practical utility, understanding it as a sacred entity interwoven with cultural
practices. Her deep connection to the land and water drives her to engage in
acts of peaceful protest and advocacy. Through her actions, she embodies the
spirit of indigenous resistance, standing against the encroachment of
development on their sacred spaces.
Jeannette
Armstrong's narrative weaves together the voices of those who are often
marginalized in discussions of environmental change. "Kyoti"
underscores the importance of understanding and respecting the perspectives of
indigenous communities, who possess a profound knowledge of their lands and a
commitment to maintaining their harmonious relationship with the environment.
As
the story unfolds, Kyoti's efforts become a rallying cry for her community and
beyond. The tale delves into the tension between economic progress and the
preservation of cultural heritage, underscoring the need for a balance between
human development and environmental stewardship.
"Kyoti"
invites readers to reflect on their own roles in shaping the world around them
and their responsibility to protect and preserve the environment. It prompts contemplation
about the power of individual actions in the face of larger forces and the
importance of intergenerational knowledge in sustaining cultures and
ecosystems.
In
summary, "Kyoti" by Jeannette Armstrong is a thought-provoking story
that intertwines environmental concerns, cultural preservation, and the
resilience of indigenous communities. Against the backdrop of the Okanagan
River and the looming dam, Kyoti's journey highlights the complexities of human
progress and the need to honor the traditions and ecosystems that have long
thrived in harmony. Through Kyoti's unwavering determination, the story
resonates as a call to respect and protect the delicate balance between nature
and culture, urging readers to consider the impact of their own actions on the
world around them.
A. Multiple Choice Questions.
1. Colombia river lies in modern day.........
a)
USA
b)
Mexico
c)
Colombia
d)
Canada
2. The term 'swallow' is.....term for the white people.
a)
a praising
b)
an insulting
c)
complimentary
d)
honorific
3. Kyoti was surprised with the men in Okanagan because.......
a)
they were smartly dressed
b)
they were well-built and robust
c)
they could not speak the local language
d)
they talked to her enthusiastically
4. Salmons could not go up the stream because of
the.............
a)
high currents of the river.
b)
high mud content in the river
c)
high dams made in the rivers
d)
high arsenic content in the river
5. At last, Kyoti makes plans to.......
a)
destroy the dams
b)
reconstruct the dams
c)
retrofit the dams
d)
check the dam
Extra MCQs
1. What is the primary setting of the story "Kyoti" by
Jeannette Armstrong?
a) A bustling city
b) A dense forest
c) The Okanagan River
d) A mountain range
2. What major theme does the story "Kyoti" explore?
a) Space exploration
b) Political intrigue
c) Cultural preservation and environmental
concerns
d) Romantic relationships
3. The construction of a dam in the story symbolizes:
a) Environmental conservation
b) Indigenous rituals
c) Human intervention in nature
d) An economic boon
4. How does Kyoti's relationship with nature and her heritage influence
her actions?
a) She disregards them for personal gain.
b) She fights to protect them from threats.
c) She isolates herself from her community.
d) She seeks to exploit them for profit.
5. What does the Okanagan River primarily represent for Kyoti's
people?
a) An obstacle to overcome
b) A source of danger
c) Spiritual and nourishing connection
d) A place for recreational activities
6. How does Kyoti react to the announcement of the dam's
construction?
a) She is indifferent and ignores it.
b) She immediately protests and leads a
revolt.
c) She embraces the change as progress.
d) She consults with the government for
compromise.
7. In what way does Kyoti stand against the impending dam's
construction?
a) By seeking compensation for the land
b) Through acts of peaceful protest and
advocacy
c) By becoming an employee of the
construction project
d) By negotiating with the developers
8. What does Kyoti embody in the story?
a) Ignorance and complacency
b) Resilience and resistance
c) Rebellion and disobedience
d) Apathy and disinterest
9. What does the story suggest about the significance of the
river to Kyoti?
a) It is a source of danger and fear.
b) It represents a way to escape her
problems.
c) It holds spiritual and cultural
importance.
d) It's a reminder of her family's history.
10. How does Kyoti's perspective on the river contrast with the
dam's construction?
a) She believes the dam will improve the
river's ecosystem.
b) She sees the river as expendable for
development.
c) She views the river as a sacred entity
tied to her culture.
d) She thinks the dam will make the river
more accessible.
11. What does the term "intergenerational knowledge"
mean in the context of the story?
a) Knowledge passed down from one
generation to the next
b) Knowledge shared among different
cultures
c) Knowledge gained through formal
education
d) Knowledge specific to a single individual
12. What does Jeannette Armstrong's narrative emphasize in
"Kyoti"?
a) The superiority of urban living over
rural living
b) The insignificance of cultural heritage
c) The power of technology to solve
environmental issues
d) The importance of respecting indigenous
perspectives
13. How does Kyoti's resistance affect her community?
a) It causes division and conflict.
b) It inspires unity and change.
c) It leads to economic growth.
d) It results in indifference.
14. What is the primary lesson that "Kyoti" teaches
readers?
a) Progress always outweighs cultural
preservation.
b) Economic development should come before
environmental concerns.
c) Indigenous voices and traditions should
be respected.
d) Individual actions have no impact on
larger issues.
15. What is the tension that the story explores?
a) Conflict between humans and animals
b) Competition for natural resources
c) Struggle for political power
d) Balance between development and cultural
heritage
16. How does Kyoti's connection to the river impact her actions?
a) She feels indifferent about its fate.
b) She becomes angry and confrontational.
c) She is inspired to protect it at all
costs.
d) She uses it for personal gain.
17. What does the Okanagan River symbolize for Kyoti's
community?
a) A barrier between different tribes
b) A source of transportation
c) A spiritual and cultural lifeline
d) A potential area for tourism
18. How does Kyoti's story resonate as a "call to respect
and protect the delicate balance between nature and culture"?
a) She promotes exploitation of the
environment.
b) She disregards the importance of cultural
heritage.
c) She emphasizes the need for economic
growth.
d) She fights to preserve her heritage and
the environment.
19. What does the story suggest about the relationship between
environmental and cultural preservation?
a) They are unrelated concepts.
b) They are in constant conflict.
c) They can coexist harmoniously.
d) Cultural preservation always trumps
environmental concerns.
20. What is the primary reason Kyoti's efforts become a rallying
cry for her community?
a) Her charismatic leadership
b) Economic incentives for the community
c) The promise of fame and recognition
d) Her dedication to preserving their
heritage
B. Short Questions
1. What did Kyoti use to do in the past?
Kyoti
is described as a mythical figure who traveled up the Columbia River to the
Okanagan River, previously bringing salmon to the Okanagan people and making
them happy. Now, after a short nap, Kyoti is back and eager to visit the
Okanagan people again, as they are Kyoti's favorite. The anticipation of a
feast with salmon accompanies Kyoti's journey upstream.
Kyoti
is making a return journey from the Columbia River to the Okanagan River. This
isn't the first time Kyoti has taken this route; there was a previous occasion
when Kyoti traveled up the Okanagan River, delivering salmon to the villages of
the Okanagan people. This act of bringing salmon to the villages brought
immense joy and happiness to the people, making it a cherished gift. This
happened long ago.
After
waking up from a short nap, Kyoti continues walking upstream with the desire to
reunite with the Okanagan people. These people hold a special place in Kyoti's
heart, and visiting them always guarantees a delightful feast with plenty of
salmon.
2. How does Kyoti see the high structure in the river?
After
waking up from a short nap, Kyoti continues walking upstream with the desire to
reunite with the Okanagan people. These people hold a special place in Kyoti's heart
and visiting them always guarantees a delightful feast with plenty of salmon.
As
Kyoti continues walking along, the landscape has changed significantly since
the last trip. Many Swallow people, who are not part of the Okanagan culture,
now inhabit the area. They have built numerous houses, making everything look
unfamiliar to Kyoti. Surprisingly, there are no signs of the People or their
villages, which leaves Kyoti feeling perplexed.
During
the journey, Kyoti encounters a massive structure across the river, known as
the Grand Coulee, which is a large dam. It stretches extensively and blocks the
flow of water. Kyoti is puzzled by this imposing structure and feels uneasy
about its presence. Kyoti contemplates going to the Kettle Falls, where the
Salmon Chief resides, but doubts that salmon would be able to pass through the
dam, no matter how high they could jump. Despite feeling hungry and not finding
any People yet, Kyoti decides to proceed further up the Okanagan River to the
region where the People had once joyously received the salmon brought by Kyoti.
3. Why are the fishermen not able to talk to Kyoti?
Kyoti
retraces the river's path and starts heading up the Okanagan River. As Kyoti
progresses, the fear of encountering another imposing structure like the Grand
Coulee comes true. At Chief Joseph, Kyoti finds another one of these structures
stretching across the river. However, this time, Kyoti spots a couple of People
fishing beneath it, the first People seen along the river.
Approaching
them with anticipation, Kyoti expects a warm greeting and a display of respect,
considering the history of bringing salmon to these People and being respected
in the area. However, the young men do not respond and continue fishing,
seemingly unaware of Kyoti's presence or unable to understand Kyoti's language.
Trying
once again to engage in conversation, Kyoti speaks louder and slower, inquiring
about the fishing conditions and the possibility of catching large fish at this
time of year. Despite the effort, one of the young men responds with a shoulder
shrug, signaling their lack of knowledge, and attempts to convey in Swallow
talk that they don't understand the Okanagan language.
This
encounter leaves Kyoti surprised, as it becomes evident that these young men
and potentially the entire community are unable to comprehend the language of
the Okanagan People. This realization highlights the extent to which the
Swallow culture has overtaken the area, affecting communication and cultural
connections with the original inhabitants.
4. What does the old woman report Kyoti?
Kyoti
tirelessly searched for someone who could still speak the language of the
People. Eventually, Kyoti found an old woman, a member of an ancient headman
family from a particular village. When she saw Kyoti, she recognized the
visitor and burst into tears, expressing her despair and longing for Kyoti's
return. She explained that things had taken a turn for the worse since the
arrival of the Swallows, who had built a massive structure across the river,
reminiscent of the dams Kyoti had broken in the past to bring salmon to the
People. However, this new structure seemed more formidable and destructive.
Kyoti
attempted to lighten the atmosphere with humor, joking about oversleeping as an
excuse for not returning sooner. This had been a known characteristic of
Kyoti—frequently sleeping longer than necessary, even for crucial events.
Despite
the attempt at humor, the old woman continued to cry and share her grievances.
She felt unheard and forgotten, lamenting that nobody paid attention to her or
remembered Kyoti. She urged Kyoti to go to Vernon, located in the North
Okanagan, to seek out a man named Tommy. According to her, Tommy was still
talking about Kyoti and might be able to shed light on the situation and what
had transpired in Kyoti's absence.
This
emotional encounter revealed the profound impact of the Swallows' arrival on
the People's lives, causing significant changes and upheavals in their culture
and way of life. The quest to find answers and solutions to the problems caused
by the Swallows became even more urgent for Kyoti.
5. Why does the old woman suggest that Kyoti should go to
Vernon?
The
old woman suggests that Kyoti should go to Vernon because she believes that
Tommy, a man residing there, may have valuable information or insights about
the changes that have occurred in the People's community since Kyoti's absence.
Tommy is known to talk about Kyoti, which indicates that he might have
knowledge about the events that unfolded when the Swallows arrived and brought
significant disruptions to the People's way of life.
Vernon,
being in the North Okanagan, might have become a central gathering place or a
hub for information exchange among the People. It is possible that Tommy has
interacted with the Swallows or has witnessed firsthand the changes they
brought to the region. Thus, the old woman sees Tommy as a potential source of
information and guidance for Kyoti in understanding the current situation and
finding a way to address the challenges posed by the Swallows' presence.
The
suggestion to visit Tommy in Vernon reflects the old woman's hope that Kyoti
can receive some clarity and support in their efforts to restore the balance
and harmony that once existed in the People's community before the arrival of
the Swallows.
6. How does the headman express the helplessness of the entire
tribal people?
The
headman expresses the helplessness of the entire tribal people by conveying a
sense of resignation and acceptance of their current situation. He admits that
the tribe is facing significant challenges and changes due to the presence of
the Swallows, who have brought new ways of living and doing things. However, he
also acknowledges that they have no choice but to adapt to the Swallows'
lifestyle in order to survive and sustain their community.
When
Kyoti suggests breaking the Swallows' dams to allow salmon to return, the
headman dismisses the idea, stating that it would only lead to trouble. He
emphasizes that the tribe needs to work with the Swallows now, even if they
don't entirely agree with their practices. He highlights the need to earn
money, have jobs, and embrace the Swallows' ways to ensure their survival, as
that is the reality they find themselves in.
The
headman's response reflects the prevailing sentiment among the tribal people,
who feel compelled to conform to the Swallows' dominant culture and economic
system. It reveals a sense of powerlessness in the face of external forces that
have drastically altered their way of life and made them dependent on the
Swallows for sustenance and livelihood.
This
helplessness is further evident in the headman's refusal to consider Kyoti's
perspective and the urgency to restore the natural order. Instead, he
prioritizes the tribe's immediate needs and survival, even if it means
compromising their traditional values and practices. The headman's response
serves as a poignant portrayal of the struggle and dilemmas faced by indigenous
communities when confronted with overwhelming societal changes and the loss of
their cultural heritage.
7. According to Kyoti, why is it necessary to change the
monsters?
According
to Kyoti, it is necessary to change the monsters because they are destructive
beings that harm both people and the environment. The monsters, in this
context, refer to the Swallows, who have brought significant changes and
destruction to the land and the traditional way of life of the tribal people.
Kyoti
observes that the Swallows are like Monster people, who act selfishly and
without regard for others or the natural world. They have built huge dams that
block the rivers and prevent salmon from reaching their spawning grounds. This
has not only deprived the people of a vital food source but has also disrupted
the natural balance of the ecosystem.
The
monsters (Swallows) have taken over the traditional lands and villages of the
People, leaving them displaced and disconnected from their ancestral homes.
They have also imposed their own language, culture, and way of life on the
People, causing confusion and alienation.
Kyoti
recognizes that the monsters' actions have had severe consequences for the
well-being of the tribal people. Many are suffering from illness and malaise,
and their spirits are broken. The monsters have disrupted the natural order and
harmony that existed before their arrival.
To
restore balance and harmony, Kyoti believes that the monsters need to be
changed. He wants to break the dams they have built to allow the salmon to
return, and he wants the people to reclaim their traditional way of life and
culture. Kyoti sees the urgency of reversing the destructive actions of the
monsters and returning to a more sustainable and harmonious way of living.
In
essence, Kyoti's mission is to transform the Swallows from being destructive
monsters into beings that coexist peacefully with nature and respect the
traditions and livelihoods of the tribal people. By effecting this change,
Kyoti aims to bring back prosperity, health, and happiness to the People and
the land they inhabit.
8. How does the salmon chief describe the situation?
The
Salmon Chief describes the situation as dire and sorrowful. He reveals that he
is the chief of the Kettle Falls, traditionally a position associated with
overseeing the abundance of salmon in the river. However, he explains that there
are no more salmon coming up the river, and the falls themselves have
disappeared due to the actions of the Swallows (the monsters).
The
Salmon Chief shares the heart-wrenching tale of how his great grandfather was
the last Salmon Chief to witness the salmon running in the river. Since then,
the Swallows came and brought devastation, blocking the river with dams and
disrupting the natural migration of the salmon. As a result, the People have
been deprived of the salmon, their traditional and essential food source.
He
expresses his frustration and hopelessness in waiting for the salmon to return.
The Salmon Chief confides that he still sees the vision of millions of salmon
coming up the river whenever he closes his eyes during salmon-run time.
However, upon opening his eyes, his vision remains unfulfilled, and he is left
feeling tired and alone in the absence of the salmon and his people.
Despite
the difficult circumstances, the Salmon Chief finds solace in the words of
Tommy, an old man and possibly a leader of the People, who encourages him not
to give up hope. Tommy's belief in the return of Kyoti (who represents positive
change and restoration) gives the Salmon Chief a glimmer of hope that things
may eventually improve.
In
essence, the Salmon Chief's description of the situation emphasizes the deep
loss and longing for the once-thriving ecosystem and the profound impact of the
monsters' actions on the People's way of life. He portrays a community
devastated by the disappearance of a vital resource and struggling to find a
way forward in the face of overwhelming challenges.
9. What is the determination taken by Kyoti?
Kyoti
is determined to take action and bring about positive change for the People and
their ecosystem. After witnessing the devastating effects of the Swallows'
actions, the disappearance of the salmon, and the suffering of the People,
Kyoti realizes the urgency of the situation.
Kyoti
decides to break the dams that the Swallows have built, which are blocking the
river and preventing the salmon from returning. This act is intended to restore
the natural flow of the river and allow the salmon to once again reach their
traditional spawning grounds. By doing so, Kyoti aims to bring back the
abundance of salmon that used to sustain the People and make them happy.
Kyoti's
determination stems from a sense of responsibility and a desire to protect the
well-being of the People. He understands that the Swallows, who represent the
monsters, are causing harm to the environment and the community, and it is
crucial to change their destructive behavior.
By
breaking the dams and potentially confronting the Swallows, Kyoti takes on the
role of a transformative figure who seeks to restore the balance of nature and
ensure the survival and prosperity of the People. It is a courageous and
selfless decision that reflects Kyoti's commitment to his community and their
cultural heritage, as well as his concern for the environment and the creatures
that inhabit it.
10. According to the story, how does the construction of high
dams create difficulty in salmon life cycle?
The
construction of high dams creates difficulty in the salmon life cycle by
obstructing their natural migration patterns. In the story, Kyoti notices that
the Swallows (representing the outsiders) have built a huge dam across the
river at Grand Coulee and another one at Chief Joseph. These dams block the
passage of the salmon as they try to swim upstream to reach their traditional
spawning grounds.
Salmon
are anadromous fish, which means they are born in freshwater streams, then
migrate to the ocean to grow and mature. When it's time to spawn, they return
to the same freshwater streams where they were born. This migration is a
critical part of their life cycle.
However,
the high dams built by the Swallows prevent the salmon from completing their
journey. The dams act as physical barriers that the salmon cannot pass through,
as they lack the ability to jump over such enormous obstacles. As a result, the
salmon are unable to reach their spawning grounds, which leads to a decline in
their population.
The
disruption of the salmon's migration has severe consequences for both the fish
and the People who rely on them for sustenance. The salmon's inability to spawn
means there are fewer fish available for the People to catch and eat. This
scarcity of salmon negatively impacts the health and well-being of the
community, as they lose a significant source of food and nutrition.
The
construction of high dams also alters the natural flow of the river, which can
further harm the ecosystem and other wildlife that depend on the river for
survival. Overall, the dams represent a significant threat to the delicate
balance of the environment and the traditional way of life for the People and
the salmon alike.
C. Long Questions
1. How does the author bring contrast between Western people and
native people?
The
author brings contrast between Western people (referred to as Swallows) and
native people (referred to as the People) through various elements and
incidents in the story:
One
of the significant contrasts is the difference in language and communication.
Kyoti, a native figure, speaks in the language of the People, while the Western
people (Swallows) can only communicate in their own language, which the People
cannot understand. This language barrier symbolizes the disconnect between the
two groups and their inability to understand each other's ways of life.
The
story mentions that the Western people have houses everywhere, which are very
different from the traditional homes of the native People. The Swallows are
portrayed as constantly working on their houses, emphasizing a materialistic
and consumerist culture. In contrast, the native People live in simpler, more
traditional dwellings, reflecting a closer connection to nature and a less
materialistic lifestyle.
The
construction of high dams by the Western people is a prominent contrast in the
story. The dams disrupt the natural flow of the river and hinder the salmon's
migration, causing negative consequences for the ecosystem and the People's way
of life. This highlights how the Western society's technological advancements
can have detrimental effects on the environment and the balance of nature.
The
Western people are depicted as being disconnected from nature, viewing it as
something to be conquered and exploited for their own needs. In contrast, the
native People, like Kyoti, have a deep reverence for nature and its resources.
They see themselves as stewards of the land and practice sustainable ways of
living that respect the natural world.
The
story touches upon the cultural values of both groups. The Western people
prioritize economic progress and individual gain, as seen in their construction
of dams and focus on material wealth. On the other hand, the native People
value community, cooperation, and preservation of their traditions, as
demonstrated by their attachment to the salmon and the importance of their
language and customs.
Kyoti
is portrayed as a wise figure who possesses ancient knowledge and remembers the
history of the People. This highlights the value of traditional knowledge and
wisdom in native culture. In contrast, the Western people seem to have lost
touch with the deeper understanding of their impact on the environment and
their place in the natural world.
By
presenting these contrasts, the author sheds light on the clash between two
different ways of life, the challenges faced by indigenous communities in the
face of modernization, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage and
environmental balance.
2. How does the author criticize the western perspective of
development?
The
author criticizes the Western perspective of development by highlighting its
negative impact on the environment, indigenous cultures, and the overall
harmony of the natural world. Several aspects of the story serve as critiques
of the Western approach to development:
The
construction of high dams by the Western people (Swallows) is a central theme
in the story. These dams disrupt the natural flow of the river, obstruct the
salmon's migration, and lead to the destruction of their habitats. The author
criticizes the Western approach of prioritizing industrial development without
adequately considering the ecological consequences. The construction of dams is
symbolic of how the Western perspective often prioritizes economic gains over
environmental preservation.
The
story portrays the Western people as being disconnected from nature and its rhythms.
They are depicted as exploiting natural resources without fully understanding
or respecting the delicate balance of the ecosystem. This disconnection is seen
in their inability to communicate with the salmon or comprehend the importance
of preserving the salmon's traditional migration routes. The author criticizes
this lack of reverence for nature and its creatures.
The
presence of the Western people and their cultural dominance has led to the
erosion of indigenous cultures and languages. The author critiques how the
Western perspective often marginalizes and dismisses native cultures as
inferior or outdated. The loss of the People's language and traditions
represents the detrimental impact of Western development on indigenous
communities.
The
story highlights the contrast between the Western people's materialistic
lifestyle, characterized by constant construction and accumulation of wealth,
and the native People's sustainable way of life. The Western perspective
prioritizes consumerism and economic growth without considering the long-term
consequences for the environment and the well-being of future generations.
The
author presents Kyoti as a wise figure who possesses ancient knowledge and
understands the importance of living in harmony with nature. In contrast, the
Western people are portrayed as lacking this deep wisdom and connection to the
land. This contrast suggests that the Western perspective of development often
neglects the value of traditional knowledge and its relevance in maintaining ecological
balance.
Overall,
the author uses the story to criticize the Western perspective of development
for its shortsightedness, disregard for the environment, and negative impact on
indigenous cultures. By presenting the clash between the Western and native
ways of life, the author advocates for a more sustainable and holistic approach
to development that considers the interconnectedness of all living beings and
the importance of preserving cultural heritage and environmental equilibrium.
3. Do you think the author is worried about the loss of native
culture and identity? Give reasons.
Yes,
the author appears to be deeply concerned about the loss of native culture and
identity. Several reasons in the story indicate the author's worry:
The
author portrays Kyoti as a figure who possesses ancient wisdom and knowledge of
the People's language and culture. Kyoti's return and his interactions with the
People suggest a strong desire to preserve and revive their traditional ways of
life. The emphasis on Kyoti's role as a cultural messenger underscores the
author's concern for safeguarding native culture and identity.
The
story highlights the impact of Western development on the People's culture and
language. The Western people's dominance and imposition of their ways have led
to the erosion of the People's language and traditions. The author's depiction
of the People struggling to communicate with the Westerners and the loss of
their ancestral language evokes a sense of concern for the fading native identity.
The
People's longing for Kyoti's return and their recognition of him as a
significant cultural figure indicate a desire to reconnect with their heritage.
The fact that the People still remember and revere Kyoti despite the passage of
time shows the author's concern for preserving the continuity of their culture
and identity.
The
clash between the Western and native ways of life serves as a backdrop to
express the author's concern about the encroachment of Western values on native
traditions. The author uses this conflict to highlight the importance of
preserving and valuing indigenous cultures.
The
construction of high dams and the transformation of the landscape by the
Western people have disrupted the natural order and the People's way of life,
including their traditional reliance on salmon. The author's focus on these
changes and their consequences for the People's cultural practices and identity
reflects a concern for the preservation of their unique way of life.
In
summary, the author's portrayal of cultural erosion, the longing for connection
to ancestral roots, and the clash between Western and native ways of life
indicate a strong worry about the loss of native culture and identity. By
weaving these themes into the narrative, the author raises awareness about the
importance of preserving indigenous cultures and traditions in the face of
rapid societal and environmental changes.
4. How are the white men trying to control the natural flow of
the river?
In
the story, the white men are trying to control the natural flow of the river by
constructing high dams. These dams are built across the river, stretching from
one bank to the other, creating artificial barriers that block the natural
course of the water. By doing so, they can harness the river's energy to
generate electricity, control flooding, and provide water for irrigation and
other purposes.
The
construction of these high dams has several significant effects on the river
and its ecosystem:
Salmon,
which are an essential part of the native people's culture and livelihood, rely
on rivers to swim upstream and spawn. The dams block the migratory path of the
salmon, preventing them from reaching their traditional spawning grounds. This
disrupts the natural life cycle of the fish and poses a threat to their
population.
Dams
change the natural flow of the river, leading to the formation of reservoirs
behind the barriers. This alters the river's ecosystem, affecting the plant and
animal species that depend on the river's natural flow for survival.
Additionally, the changes in water temperature, oxygen levels, and sediment
transport can have far-reaching consequences on the entire ecosystem.
The
dams' construction causes the displacement of native communities and forces
them to abandon their ancestral lands, disrupting their traditional practices
and ways of life. The native people's cultural practices, including fishing and
reliance on the river for sustenance, are deeply impacted by the altered river
dynamics.
The
construction of dams gives the white men control over the river's natural
resources, including its water flow and energy potential. This control enables
them to exploit these resources for economic and industrial purposes, often to
the detriment of the native communities and the environment.
By
building high dams and controlling the river's natural flow, the white men
assert dominance over the land and its resources, which has significant
implications for the native people, their culture, and the delicate balance of
the river ecosystem. The story critiques this interference with nature and its
consequences for the native population, highlighting the tension between
traditional ways of life and Western development.
5. How does the story talk about the resistance of man's atrocity
against the natural world?
The
story talks about the resistance of man's atrocity against the natural world
through the character of Kyoti, who represents a powerful force of nature and
the embodiment of resistance against the destructive actions of humans.
Kyoti,
as a mythical being, holds a deep connection to nature and its harmony. The
story portrays Kyoti as a figure from the past who once brought abundance and
happiness to the people by gifting them salmon. However, upon returning to the
same region after some time, Kyoti witnesses the drastic changes brought about
by the white men's constructions, particularly the high dams, which disrupt the
natural flow of the river and prevent the salmon from reaching their
traditional spawning grounds.
Kyoti's
reaction to the presence of the dams reflects the resistance against man's
interference with nature. The dams symbolize human arrogance and disregard for
the natural world, causing harm to both the environment and the native people
who rely on the river's resources. Kyoti's attempts to communicate with the
local people, urging them to break the dams and restore the natural order, are
met with apathy, helplessness, and even ridicule.
The
story also presents a stark contrast between the indigenous people's close
connection to nature and the Western perspective of development that
prioritizes profit and control over the environment. The native people live in
harmony with nature, respecting its cycles and understanding the importance of
sustainability. In contrast, the white men's actions are driven by a desire for
economic growth and dominance, leading to the exploitation and destruction of
the natural world.
By
highlighting the resistance of Kyoti and the native people against man's
atrocity, the story critiques the destructive impact of human activities on the
environment. It underscores the importance of preserving the natural world and
the need for a more balanced and respectful relationship between humans and
nature. Through Kyoti's determination to bring back the salmon and restore the
river's natural flow, the story conveys a message of hope and the possibility
of healing the wounds inflicted on the natural world by human actions.
6. Comment on the language of the story.
The
language of the story is rich in imagery and symbolism, creating a vivid and
evocative narrative that transports readers into the world of Kyoti and the
Okanagan River. The author's use of descriptive language helps paint a detailed
picture of the natural landscapes and the changes that have occurred over time.
By employing sensory details and figurative language, the story engages
readers' senses and emotions, making the experience more immersive.
The
author uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings throughout the story. Kyoti, as
a mythical figure, represents the connection to nature and the wisdom of the
past. The salmon symbolizes abundance, life, and the natural order, while the
dams and the presence of the Swallow people symbolize man's interference and
disruption of nature. These symbols add layers of meaning and complexity to the
narrative, encouraging readers to reflect on the themes of environmental
destruction, cultural identity, and the consequences of human actions.
The
story also uses dialogue effectively to reveal the characters' perspectives and
emotions. The interactions between Kyoti and the native people, as well as with
the white men, highlight the clash of worldviews and the struggles of the
indigenous people in the face of drastic changes to their way of life. Through
dialogue, readers gain insights into the characters' thoughts, beliefs, and
concerns, allowing for a deeper understanding of their motivations and
reactions.
Moreover,
the story incorporates elements of oral storytelling traditions, preserving the
authenticity of indigenous narratives. It employs a conversational and informal
tone, as if the tale is being shared by a storyteller to an audience. This
storytelling style adds a sense of cultural heritage and connects the readers
to the oral traditions of the native people.
Overall,
the language of the story is powerful and poignant, effectively conveying the
message of environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and the impact of
human actions on the natural world. Through its evocative language and symbolic
storytelling, the narrative leaves a lasting impression on the readers, urging
them to contemplate the delicate balance between humanity and nature.
Best of Luck
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