What symbolizes the first chapter of Medicine River?

If you have to choose only one symbol in the first chapter of Thomas King’s novel Medicine River, you might go with the letters. Remember, the book begins with an excerpt of a letter from Will’s dad to his mom. Will has never met his dad. The letters seem to symbolize Will’s desire to know more about his history, especially as it relates to his father. It also seems to symbolize the way in which his past has been covered up or hidden from him.

When his mom catches him reading the letters, she’s upset. She says that they don’t belong to him and that they’re private. She then slaps him. She doesn’t slap him lightly—she slaps him “hard.”

In the context of his mom’s reaction, the letters might also symbolize the general, historical violence that Indigenous people have suffered. It might symbolize the ways in which their past and history has been forcefully and violently taken from them. Rose’s assertion that the letters are private might be a symbolic way for her to reclaim her past and history, even if she does so at the expense of her son.

However you talk about the symbolism of the letters, it seems safe to argue that the letters are the primary symbol of chapter 1. As you might have noticed, much of chapter 1 is dominated by either excerpts from the letters or scenes based on the letters and their author.

Who or what symbolizes something in Medicine River, and what does it symbolize?

The Christmas and birthday gifts Will gives to South Wing in Medicine River have symbolic meanings. Will is struggling to find his place in this world. As a Native American, he connects with his tribal ancestry. He is also aware that having a white father leaves him removed from the community. He is allowed to visit the reservation but not to stay.

As Will grows closer to South Wing and her mother, Louisa, he feels a desire to give the young girl what he did not have, a father that was present and available. First, Will gives South Wing a vibrant Native American rattle adorned with primary colors. As a photographer, Will has previously mentioned his admiration for primary colors. The rattle is a physical representation of the colorful and intricate details that inspire Will's photography. The rattle also symbolizes Will's appreciation for Indigenous culture and the importance of heritage.

When Will gives South Wing a singing top as a second gift, he gives her something his father failed to give him. At one point, he learns that his father had sent him a similar top but that it never arrived. This toy is also brightly painted with primary colors and represents Will's desire to be a father to South Wing. He is literally giving her what he never received from his own father. This is why the two gifts hold such symbolic importance.