Fools Crow Revenge Quotes

In the novel, Fools Crow, written by James Welch, the act of revenge is shown numerous times and is an underlying theme throughout. These acts of revenge reflect the Blackfeet way of life. Yellow Kidney, Owl Child, and the rest of the tribe all show signs of revenge and each express it in their own way. This is especially prevalent with Yellow Kidney and Owl Child as they seem to be constantly seeking revenge of some sort.

Yellow Kidney wanted revenge on Fast Horse throughout the novel. This is shown in Chapter 8 when it narrates, “ Many of them hoped Yellow Kidney would exercise his right to revenge his mutilation, to kill Fast Horse.” (pg. 117) They hoped this because it this didn’t go through, then the tribe may have had to banish him so that way Boss Ribs could save some face. On the next page, when Rides-at-the-door is speaking with Three Bears, Three Bears asks, “Do you think he will attempt revenge—on Fast Horse?” Then Rides-at-the-door says, “Right now I don’t think he knows. He pities himself and thinks only of his misfortune. Soon, though, he will begin to think of Fast Horse.” (pg. 118) The dialogue here signifies that Yellow Kidney is really out to seek revenge at this point and may never, but maybe will eventually. The question designates an opinion among the tribe because that is what most of them are thinking. Farther down that

Most of the revenge comes from Yellow Kidney and Owl Child. It is easy to see that a combination of revenge from everyone makes it an underlying theme in the novel but also the culture of the Blackfeet. It is a way of life to seek revenge for other’s wrongdoings and again they use it as a way to justify killing someone or another equally illegal act. In conclusion, the Black Feet show their own way of making something justifiable, as do Americans today, making it acceptable in the context of the novel, Fools