Native American Trickster: Nanabush in Drew Hayden Taylor's Motorcycles & Sweetgrass

Abstract

In this thesis, I explore the complex nature of tricksters, analyzing their representation in Indigenous folklore and their contemporary relevance, through Drew Hayden Taylor’s Motorcycles & Sweetgrass. Through the examination of Taylor’s portrayal of the Ojibwe trickster figure Nanabush, I analyze the character’s duality, diversity, and unique perspective on identity. Nanabush’s presence as both John and the trickster, his ironic reflections on identity, and his interaction with other characters serve as a central topic for examining themes of cultural identity and the clash between Indigenous traditions and Christian faith in the novel. Furthermore, I explore Taylor’s narrative approach to preserving cultural traditions while navigating contemporary life, utilizing Nanabush as a constant reminder of the community’s roots amidst cultural shifts.