Simplifying our Complex World

Stereotypes are hurtful generalizations but have the ability to reveal an underlying truth. Generalizations stem from observed behaviors and then are exaggerated to blanket a large group of people. It is important for people to understand where stereotypes originate, the significance of them, and how to transcend them. In Sherman Alexie's The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven Alexie cleverly intertwines humor and pain to underscore the effects stereotypes have on a person. 

Alexie's book is in and of itself alcohol soaked. Each story drips with the destructive consequences of intoxication among his people. All this was very personal for him, and so he was easily able to relate and write about it. Yet, when people would ask him if it was an autobiography, he would respond defiantly. "Fiction. That's what this book is." But, he too knew, it was far from fiction, it was reality. Alexie wanted people to believe that his tale was fiction because he did not want to advocate negative stereotypes of his own people. On the other hand, his book does show truth- ironically what the stereotypes are- and so it is similar to an autobiography. This is because Alexie still wants to recount and share his traumatic experiences. He wants people to know what he and his people endured but he is too ashamed to take ownership of the experiences.

During his early adulthood Alexie comes to terms with the stereotypes that follow him. With his long, dark hair he knows he looks like what the "white" man associates with danger. Once when he was at a 7-11 convenience store late at night, he knew the worker there had created an impression of him based on preconceived notions. When the worker turned around to fill his order, the fear of what Alexie could do to him while his back was turned struck him. He quickly turned around and asked a question he already knew the answer to. Alexie pointed this out, and the two laughed over what just transpired. The reader too, would find this situation amusing. It is interesting how Alexie knew that he is being discriminated against, but instead of reacting like a victim he becomes a martyr when he rises above the stereotypes.

According to the University Counseling Center at Notre Dame, people stereotype to simplify the world around them. It makes the complex world around us easier to understand. Since stereotypes are exaggerations of observed notions, some people believe their pervasiveness is not harmful. It is crucial for people to understand that stereotypes can be made for all groups of people, and all types of people. The best way to circumvent the pain is to acknowledge the root of the stereotype and accept it. It is not necessary to agree with the generalization, but rather be indifferent towards it. Each person has their own way of transcending their problems, and stereotyping is one of the problems that people must learn to overcome.