Introduction
Welcome to the captivating world of Flight, a novel by the talented Sherman Alexie 📚✨. This book, published in 2007, takes us on a tumultuous journey through the eyes of its protagonist, Zits, a troubled Native American teenager navigating the complexities of identity, violence, and history.
Sherman Alexie, a Spokane-Coeur d’Alene novelist, poet, and filmmaker, is known for his poignant and often humorous exploration of contemporary Native American life. His works are celebrated for their deep emotional impact and insightful commentary on society and culture.
Flight stands out in the genre of contemporary fiction, blending elements of magical realism and historical drama to offer a unique perspective on the struggles of its characters. Through Zits’ eyes, we’re invited to explore themes of anger, redemption, and the search for self amidst the chaos of an imperfect world.
So, buckle up 🚀! We’re about to dive into a story that’s as heart-wrenching as it is hopeful, revealing the power of healing and understanding in the face of adversity.
Plot Summary
Flight by Sherman Alexie takes readers on a compelling journey through its well-structured plot, encompassing moments of introspection, historical immersion, and magical realism. Here’s how the story unfolds:
Exposition — The novel introduces us to Zits, a 15-year-old Native American boy, who grapples with a sense of abandonment and identity crisis. Shuffled between foster homes, Zits struggles with anger and disillusionment towards society.
Rising Action — After a series of altercations and a fateful meeting with a boy named Justice, Zits finds himself embroiled in a misguided plan to enact violence at a bank. This decision is fueled by his accumulated rage and Justice’s manipulative influence.
Climax — Just as Zits pulls the trigger in the bank, he’s transported back in time. This marks the beginning of his journey through various historical periods. He inhabits the bodies of several characters, each offering him a glimpse into their lives and the violence they’ve experienced or perpetrated.
Falling Action — Through these experiences, Zits confronts the pain and suffering caused by violence, gaining insights into forgiveness, empathy, and humanity. He begins to understand the complexity of his feelings and the interconnectedness of people across different times.
Resolution — Zits returns to his body with a renewed sense of identity and purpose. Choosing not to continue the cycle of violence, he seeks forgiveness and starts on a path of healing and redemption, hopeful about forging genuine connections and understanding his cultural heritage.
This narrative arc, with its exploration of historical violence and personal redemption, makes Flight a poignant story about the power of empathy and the possibility of change even in those deemed lost.
Character Analysis
In Flight, Sherman Alexie offers a profound exploration of characters, each contributing to the novel’s themes of identity, violence, and redemption. Here’s a closer look:
Zits — The protagonist, a 15-year-old Native American boy, navigates through his tumultuous life filled with anger, confusion, and a deep sense of abandonment. His journey of self-discovery, propelled by his time-travel experiences, leads him from a path of vengeance to one of understanding and empathy. His character development is central to the novel’s message of redemption and the power of second chances.
Justice — A charismatic but manipulative teenager Zits meets in jail. Justice embodies the role of a catalyst in Zits’ life, pushing him towards violence. His influence represents the dangers of misguided mentorship and the seductive nature of retributive justice to those feeling powerless.
Officer Dave — As one of the bodies Zits inhabits during his time-travel episodes, Officer Dave, a white police officer, offers Zits insights into the complexities of justice and personal morality. Through Officer Dave, Zits experiences the life of someone he perceives as an enemy, leading to a deeper understanding of humanity and the flawed nature of individuals.
The Indian Boy — Another significant embodiment Zits experiences, living as a young Native American boy during a pivotal and tragic moment in Native history. This experience profoundly impacts Zits, connecting him with his cultural heritage and the historical suffering of his people, instilling a sense of empathy and a deeper connection to his identity.
Gus — A soldier during the Indian Wars, another life Zits steps into. Through Gus, Zits confronts the brutality of American expansionism and the personal conflicts soldiers faced, further complicating his understanding of violence and its justifications.
| Character | Personality | Motivations | Development |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zits | Angry, confused, searching | To find identity and belonging | Grows into understanding and empathy |
| Justice | Charismatic, manipulative | To incite violence and chaos | Catalyst for Zits’ initial downfall |
| Officer Dave | Complex, moral | To do his duty, despite personal struggles | Provides Zits with insight into morality |
| The Indian Boy | Innocent, victimized | Survival in a harsh historical reality | Deepens Zits’ cultural and empathetic connection |
| Gus | Conflicted, duty-bound | To serve, despite moral conflicts | Highlights the tragedy of violence and conquest |
Through these characters, Alexie not only crafts a narrative rich in emotional depth and complexity but also illustrates the transformative power of empathy, understanding, and the human capacity for change.
Themes and Symbols
In Flight by Sherman Alexie, the narrative is rich with themes and symbols that delve into the complexities of identity, violence, and redemption. Here’s an exploration of the major themes and symbols within the novel:
Themes:
- Identity and Belonging — Zits’ journey is fundamentally about seeking identity and a sense of belonging. His experiences across different lives illuminate the struggles with cultural heritage, personal history, and the quest for self-discovery.
- Violence and Redemption — The cycle of violence, its causes, and its consequences form the core of the narrative. Alexie examines whether individuals can break free from this cycle, suggesting that understanding and empathy might offer paths to redemption.
- Empathy and Understanding — Through the protagonist’s journey, the novel advocates for empathy and understanding as means to overcome prejudice, hatred, and violence. Zits’ time-travel experiences allow him to walk in others’ shoes, fostering a deep sense of connection and compassion.
- Historical Trauma — The narrative delves into the impact of historical events on personal and collective identities. Zits’ experiences in different historical periods expose him to the trauma endured by Native Americans, highlighting the long-lasting effects of such trauma.
Symbols:
- Mirrors — Mirrors in Flight symbolize introspection and the multiple identities Zits assumes. They reflect his fragmented sense of self and his journey towards integration and wholeness.
- Fire — Fire represents both destruction and purification throughout the novel. It symbolizes the potential for renewal and change following destruction, echoing Zits’ own transformative journey.
- Flight — The title itself is symbolic of escape and freedom. For Zits, flight represents his desire to escape his troubled life and the transformative journey he undertakes. It also suggests the possibility of rising above the cycle of violence and finding liberation in understanding and empathy.
These themes and symbols intertwine to create a narrative that challenges readers to reflect on the nature of violence, the search for identity, and the redemptive power of empathy. Alexie’s Flight invites a nuanced consideration of how individuals and societies might move forward from a legacy of pain towards healing and understanding.
Style and Tone
Sherman Alexie’s Flight is distinguished by its unique writing style and tone, which play crucial roles in shaping the novel’s mood and atmosphere. Here’s how these elements contribute to the storytelling:
- Conversational and Direct Tone — Alexie employs a conversational and direct tone through Zits, the protagonist, making the narrative accessible and engaging. This tone helps to establish an immediate connection with the reader, inviting them into Zits’ inner world and his profound journey of self-discovery.
- Humor Amidst Tragedy — Despite the heavy themes of violence and suffering, Alexie skillfully incorporates humor into the narrative. This not only provides moments of relief but also deepens the humanity of the characters, making their experiences more relatable and the themes more impactful.
- Magical Realism — The element of magical realism, particularly through the time-travel sequences, allows Alexie to explore complex themes across different historical contexts. This stylistic choice enhances the narrative’s exploration of identity, empathy, and the cyclical nature of violence, making the abstract more tangible.
- Vivid Imagery and Symbolism — Alexie uses vivid imagery and symbolism to convey deeper meanings and emotions. Elements like mirrors, fire, and the act of flight are imbued with significant symbolic weight, enriching the narrative’s thematic depth and emotional resonance.
- Shifts in Perspective — The novel’s shifts in perspective, facilitated by Zits’ journeys into the lives of others, create a multifaceted view of history and human experience. This stylistic approach fosters a nuanced understanding of the characters’ motivations and the historical and cultural forces shaping their actions.
- Emotive Language — Alexie’s use of emotive language elicits a strong response from the reader, making Zits’ pain, confusion, and eventual epiphanies deeply felt. The emotional authenticity of the narrative encourages empathy and reflection on the part of the reader.
These stylistic elements and tonal choices are instrumental in creating a compelling and immersive reading experience. Through them, Alexie not only narrates Zits’ story but also invites readers to reflect on broader questions of identity, violence, and the possibility of change and redemption.
Literary Devices used in Flight
Sherman Alexie’s Flight is a masterful narrative that employs a variety of literary devices to enrich the story, deepen thematic exploration, and enhance the reader’s engagement. Here are the top 10 literary devices used:
- Metaphor — Alexie uses metaphors to draw parallels between Zits’ emotional turmoil and broader themes of identity and conflict. For instance, Zits’ journey is metaphorically depicted as a flight, symbolizing escape, transformation, and the search for belonging.
- Symbolism — Symbols like fire, mirrors, and the act of flying carry deep meanings within the narrative, representing concepts such as renewal, self-reflection, and freedom, respectively. These symbols are integral to understanding the novel’s themes.
- Irony — The use of irony, particularly situational irony, is evident in Zits’ experiences. Despite intending to commit violence, he is thrust into historical moments that teach him the value of empathy and understanding, highlighting the irony in his quest for revenge leading to personal transformation.
- Foreshadowing — Early references to Zits’ feelings of alienation and his fascination with violence foreshadow his involvement in the bank shooting and subsequent time-travel experiences, which serve as pivotal moments for his character development.
- Allusion — Alexie alludes to historical events and figures, such as the Battle of Little Bighorn, to anchor Zits’ time-travel experiences in real-world contexts. These allusions enrich the narrative by connecting Zits’ personal journey to broader historical and cultural narratives.
- Flashback — Through flashbacks, readers gain insight into Zits’ past, including his experiences in foster care and encounters with racism. These flashbacks provide crucial background information that shapes our understanding of his character and motivations.
- Imagery — Vivid imagery is used to evoke the senses and paint a detailed picture of Zits’ experiences, both in the present and during his time travels. This imagery makes the settings and characters’ emotions more tangible and impactful.
- Personification — Inanimate objects and abstract concepts are occasionally personified, imbuing them with human-like qualities. This device helps to convey the emotional intensity of certain moments and themes within the story.
- Simile — Alexie uses similes to create comparisons that illuminate Zits’ feelings and experiences. For example, his sense of isolation is often compared to being an alien on a foreign planet, highlighting his profound sense of disconnection from those around him.
- Hyperbole — Exaggeration is used for emphasis or comedic effect, underscoring Zits’ dramatic perceptions of the world and his experiences. This device also contributes to the novel’s unique voice and tone.
These literary devices are intricately woven into the fabric of Flight, showcasing Alexie’s skill as a storyteller and his ability to engage readers on multiple levels—emotionally, intellectually, and culturally.
Literary Devices Examples
Let’s delve into the examples and explanations for each of the top 10 literary devices used in Sherman Alexie’s Flight, presented in detailed tables to elucidate their significance within the novel.
Metaphor
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Zits’ journey as a “flight” through time and identities. | This metaphor underscores the novel’s themes of escape and transformation, highlighting Zits’ quest for self-discovery and redemption. |
Symbolism
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Fire symbolizing both destruction and renewal. | Fire represents the dual nature of Zits’ experiences, where moments of violence and loss lead to opportunities for growth and change. |
Irony
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Zits’ intent to commit violence leads to transformative experiences that teach him empathy. | This situational irony emphasizes the unexpected outcomes of Zits’ actions, highlighting the novel’s message about the power of understanding and redemption. |
Foreshadowing
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Early mentions of Zits’ anger and fascination with violence hint at his future actions at the bank. | This foreshadowing sets the stage for the central conflict and Zits’ subsequent journey, signaling the importance of his internal struggle. |
Allusion
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| References to the Battle of Little Bighorn. | These allusions connect Zits’ personal journey to significant historical events, deepening the narrative’s exploration of violence and identity. |
Flashback
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Zits recalls his experiences in foster care and encounters with racism. | Flashbacks provide context for Zits’ emotional state and motivations, enriching the reader’s understanding of his character. |
Imagery
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Descriptions of the visceral experiences Zits has during his time travels. | Vivid imagery immerses readers in Zits’ journey, making the historical periods he visits and his emotional reactions more impactful. |
Personification
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Giving human qualities to Zits’ feelings of isolation and alienation. | This personification amplifies the emotional intensity of Zits’ experience, making abstract feelings more relatable and tangible. |
Simile
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Comparing Zits’ sense of isolation to “being an alien on a foreign planet.” | This simile vividly conveys Zits’ profound sense of disconnection, enhancing the reader’s empathy for his character. |
Hyperbole
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Exaggerations of Zits’ perceptions of the world and people around him. | Hyperbole emphasizes the dramatic and sometimes humorous aspects of Zits’ narrative voice, adding depth to his character and lightening the novel’s tone. |
Through these literary devices, Sherman Alexie crafts a nuanced and engaging narrative in Flight, weaving together themes, emotions, and historical contexts into a rich tapestry that invites readers to explore the depths of human experience.
Flight – FAQs
What is the main theme of Flight by Sherman Alexie?
The main theme of Flight revolves around the cycle of violence and the potential for redemption. Through the protagonist Zits’ journey, the novel explores how understanding and empathy can break this cycle, highlighting the importance of self-discovery and healing.
Who is the protagonist of Flight?
The protagonist of Flight is a 15-year-old Native American boy known by his nickname, Zits. He grapples with issues of identity, belonging, and the impact of historical violence, leading him on a transformative journey through time and various lives.
How does time travel function in Flight?
In Flight, time travel serves as a pivotal narrative device that allows Zits to inhabit the bodies of different individuals across various historical periods. This mechanism facilitates his personal growth by exposing him to the perspectives and experiences of others, ultimately teaching him lessons about violence, empathy, and redemption.
What historical events does Flight reference?
Flight references several historical events, including the Battle of Little Bighorn and the broader context of Native American history. These references provide a backdrop for Zits’ time-travel experiences, enriching the novel’s exploration of historical violence and its lasting effects.
Can Flight be considered a coming-of-age novel?
Yes, Flight can be considered a coming-of-age novel. It focuses on Zits’ emotional and psychological development from a troubled teen to a more empathetic individual who gains a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world. The novel’s exploration of identity, belonging, and transformation are hallmarks of the coming-of-age genre.
What literary devices are prominently used in Flight?
Flight employs a variety of literary devices, including metaphor, symbolism, irony, foreshadowing, allusion, and vivid imagery. These devices enhance the narrative’s depth, emphasizing themes of violence, redemption, and the power of empathy.
What message does Sherman Alexie convey through Flight?
Sherman Alexie conveys the message that it’s possible to overcome cycles of violence and hatred through understanding, empathy, and self-reflection. Flight suggests that personal transformation and redemption are achievable, emphasizing the importance of connecting with others’ experiences and histories.
Quiz
| Question | A | B | C | D | Correct Answer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| What triggers Zits’ time-travel experiences in Flight? | Falling asleep | Getting arrested | Pulling the trigger in a bank | Reading a magic book | C |
| Who is Justice in Flight? | A police officer | A fellow time-traveler | A friend from the foster system | A boy Zits meets in jail | D |
| What historical event does Zits experience firsthand during his time travels? | The signing of the Declaration of Independence | The Battle of Little Bighorn | The first moon landing | The fall of the Berlin Wall | B |
| What is Zits’ real name revealed to be at the end of Flight? | Michael | John | David | He never reveals his real name | A |
| What theme is central to Flight by Sherman Alexie? | The pursuit of the American Dream | The cycle of violence and redemption | The importance of education | The impact of technology on society | B |
| How does Zits ultimately change by the end of Flight? | He becomes a police officer | He decides to return to his violent ways | He embraces his Native American heritage and seeks to understand others | He moves to another country | C |
| Which character serves as a catalyst for Zits’ initial decision to commit violence? | Officer Dave | Justice | The Indian Boy | Gus | B |
| What literary device is used to depict Zits’ various time-travel experiences? | Flashforward | Allegory | Magical realism | Satire | C |
| What symbolizes renewal and change in Flight? | The moon | Fire | A river | A mirror | B |
| What does Zits learn from his time-travel experiences? | How to fight better | The importance of wealth | That violence is sometimes necessary | The value of empathy and understanding | D |
Exercise
Identify the literary devices used in the following paragraph from Flight by Sherman Alexie. After the exercise, you will find the answers.
“As I stood there, feeling like an alien on a distant planet, the world around me seemed to shimmer with both danger and possibility. It was as if I could see the threads of history and violence weaving themselves into the fabric of the present, a tapestry that was both beautiful and horrifying.”
Answers
- Simile: Comparing feeling like an alien on a distant planet highlights Zits’ sense of isolation and disconnection from the world around him.
- Imagery: The description of the world shimmering with danger and possibility creates a vivid picture that appeals to the reader’s senses, enhancing the emotional and thematic depth of the narrative.
- Metaphor: Describing the threads of history and violence weaving themselves into the fabric of the present serves as a metaphor for the interconnectedness of past and present, and how historical violence impacts current realities.
- Symbolism: The tapestry that is both beautiful and horrifying symbolizes the complex and multifaceted nature of human history and experiences, embodying the novel’s themes of violence, beauty, and the potential for redemption.