The Night Watchman

The Night Watchman

by

Louise Erdrich

The Night Watchman: Roderick Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
Roderick misses the train back home. But there are so many Native ghosts in Washington that could keep him company, he thinks about staying. And they’re happy to have somebody new. They ask why he wants to go back and who he would be waiting for.
By referencing the number of Native ghosts in Washington, D.C., this chapter nods to the long history of violence and exploitation carried out by the U.S. government against Native people and their communities.
Themes
Power, Solidarity, and Community Action Theme Icon
Oppression and Supposed Good Intentions Theme Icon
Agency and Exploitation Theme Icon