Pre-Power

The next novel that we will read, as a class, is Linda Hogan's Power. I haven't started the book yet; however, I read the back of it. The brief summary provided on the back cover of the book mentions that the main character, Omishto, is torn between two decisions as a result of having seen her Aunt kill a panther. Although I'm clearly not apart of any native tribe where the panther is considered a sacred ancestor, such as the Taiga Tribe, I already feel as if I have a connection with Omishto, the main character.

I can identify with Omishto and her feelings of being emotionally torn. On one hand, Omishto is dealing with the fact that her mother wants her to assimilate to Western culture and leave the remnants of the tribe behind. On the other hand, she does not want to reject her tradition and fellow tribe members. What to do?

I can recall being emotionally torn when I was trying to decide where to go to college. Of course I love my family beyond all measures, and I would love to be close to them; however, I knew it was also important that I finally spread my wings and experience life as an individual--as an adult. Growing up, my parents have always sheltered me from as much harm, danger, and trouble as they possibly could. They never wanted to let me out of their sight. My dad even said, "If you go to college in North Carolina, I'll come visit you every weekend." I felt as if I would never branch out of my comfort zone if my parents were with me every time I turned around. They had to understand that I had to grow up, and prove that I can make it without the 24/7 guidance of my parents. Therefore, I was quite torn up inside when I made the decision to come to Saint Mary's because I knew I would basically be on my own. I knew I would miss my family dearly, however, I felt confident that I needed to expand my horizon.

Judging by the brief summary on the back of I think Power will be a captivating novel that a lot of us students will be able to relate to. I'm very excited about beginning it soon.