Skip to content

(Marie)...It's not like we're planning a rebellion. We're…

“(Marie)...It's not like we're planning a rebellion. We're just putting food in our cupboards. If eating is rebellious, then I guess we're the biggest rebels out there. Indians are just plain hungry. Not for power. Not for money. For food, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner..." (Dr. Mather) "There…” quote by Sherman Alexie
Download Open image
““(Marie)...It's not like we're planning a rebellion. We're just putting food in our cupboards. If eating is rebellious, then I guess we're the biggest rebels out there. Indians are just plain hungry. Not for power. Not for money. For food, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner..." (Dr. Mather) "There you go again, creating an antagonisitc situation. Don't you understand what I'm trying to teach? I'm trying to present a positive portrait of Indian peoples, of your people. Of you. I simply cannot do that if you insist on this kind of confrontational relationship...””

Sherman Alexie

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The speaker frames everyday food acquisition as a form of rebellion, emphasizing basic human needs over political motives, and calls for a non-confrontational portrayal of Indian peoples.

In simple terms: Food procurement is a quiet rebellion; people should be shown positively.

Key Takeaway

Recognize basic needs and avoid antagonism.

Themes

colonialism identity survival representation

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

cultural political

When to use this quote

  • community activism
  • educational curricula
  • media representation

Key Concepts

cultural resilience food politics stereotype challenge

Questions to Reflect On

  • In what ways can we honor cultural identity without conflict?
  • How can food be a unifying rather than dividing symbol?
A Different Perspective

Simplifying complex histories to “food rebellion” may miss deeper systemic issues.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Sherman Alexie

Explore all 546 Sherman Alexie quotes

More Indians quotes

Browse all 549 Indians quotes