Close reading and analysis of Sherman Alexie's "On the Amtrak from Boston to New York City."

It does not seem hard to understand the basic theme that is present in "On the Amtrak from Boston to New York City" by Sherman Alexie. Many Native Americans today are forced to assimilate into the American culture leaving behind their traditions and values in order to be successful in America. If they do not become Americanized many Native Americans struggle to survive on reservations. Sherman Alexie portrays the bitterness for having to put his …

…the shoes of a Native American trying to live in America. This is their "home" but it's not really their home. That is the way I see it. Many are forced to live lives they are not supposed to live. Many struggle everyday to survive to keep their culture alive. This is a struggle they are losing. Many Native Americans are forced to leave the reservation in search of better education and a better life.