I am about 200 pages into Joseph Boyden's latest novel The Orenda and enjoying it, although I'm reading by dribs and drabs. Today might afford some serious page-turning. The book explores the complex relationship between first contact peoples, namely the French, and the Huron First Nation. A Jesuit priest known as the Crow by the Hurons for his black robe lives with them as a barely tolerated shamanic presence.
Boyden, an Aboriginal writer of great skill, does well not to descend into stereotypes of either group. He does open up the strengths and flaws of both. One area he explores is the "Orenda" the life spirit which the priest wants to confine to a Christ of heaven and hell. The Hurons see the life force in all things, animate and inanimate and don't take to this presentation of Christianity readily.
I will be thinking of this story when we sing the romanticized Huron Carol, supposedly written by Jesuits, this Christmas. It is one of the few Canadian carols we sing.
Anyone else planning to read The Orenda? Have you already? Does our Christian history with First Nations matter much to you?
I would like to read this book... after I finish the 6 I have borrowed, or been given, by friends!
ReplyDeleteLike Judy, I hope to read it "soon". I was intrigued by this relationship a few years back as the kids of St Paul's told the story of the Huron Carol for their White Gift service. It was interesting as their grade 7-8 history class was drawn into Sunday School but from the perspective of not only their heritage as European Canadians but also as Christians....lots to chew on....
ReplyDelete