Language

Style of writing

The language used in the short story “This Is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona” by Sherman Alexie illustrates the Native American culture and gives the narrative authenticity. 

This feature is mainly connected with the names used in the story, which are typical for Native American tribes. Generally, Native American names are derived from nature and symbolize a particular trait that a person is supposed to have. Furthermore, the Native American names in the story give hints about people’s personalities. For example, the name “Norma Many Horses” (p. 5, l. 2) suggests that Norma is a woman whose strength matches that of many horses. This supposition is confirmed later on when she is described as “a warrior” (p. 5, l. 5). Thomas Builds-the-Fire’s name is also representative of the Native American culture. To Native Americans, fire is seen as a sacred messenger of spirits, which confirms Thomas’ apparent connection with the spiritual world. 

Irony also influences the story’s language. At the beginning of the story, the Tribal Council addresses Victor i...