Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Sherman Alexie's poem "Horses" presents a powerful and complex meditation on the historical and cultural significance of horses to Native American communities, particularly the Spokane tribe. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, Alexie explores themes of loss, resistance, pride, and the enduring spirit of his people.

The poem begins with a harrowing account of the United States Cavalry stealing and killing 1,000 ponies from the Spokane Indians. This brutal act is not just a physical and economic loss but symbolizes a deeper cultural devastation. Horses were integral to the life and identity of many Native American tribes, used for transportation, hunting, and warfare, and deeply embedded in their spiritual and social fabric. The killing of these ponies represents an assault on the tribe’s very essence.

In contrast to this tragic history, the poem shifts to a scene at a tribal rodeo, where an Indian cowboy rides a horse named "Custer's Revenge." This name is loaded with historical significance, referencing General George Custer, a controversial figure known for his role in the Indian Wars. The horse breaking through a fence becomes a metaphor for breaking free from the constraints and narratives imposed by history, a reclaiming of power and agency.

The story of a colt named Spokane winning the Kentucky Derby serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and triumph. The colt, born from the lone surviving pony of the massacre, represents the enduring spirit and strength of the Native American people, overcoming adversity and achieving success on a national stage.

Alexie then recounts a personal story of his cousin in a reservation cross-country race, which juxtaposes the image of a horse refusing to move down a mountain with the historical narrative of resistance and survival. This refusal can be interpreted as an act of defiance, a refusal to be dominated or moved by external forces.

The poem's repetition of the sound of gunshots and the imagery of the Plains Indian warrior further emphasizes the theme of resistance and the deep connection between Native Americans and their horses. The warrior's skill and unity with the horse in battle are a testament to their resilience and strength.

In the final stanzas, Alexie expresses a desire to reclaim what was lost – not just the physical horses but the dignity, freedom, and way of life that they symbolized. The poem closes with a reflection on the changing measures of wealth and identity within Native American communities, from the past, where owning horses was a sign of wealth, to the present, where Alexie himself owns no horses.

"Horses" is a poignant reminder of the painful history of Native American communities and their unyielding spirit in the face of adversity. Alexie's use of narrative, historical reference, and personal reflection creates a multi-layered exploration of identity, resilience, and the enduring connection to the land and its creatures."

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