IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature
Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026): IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Lite

Two Worlds, One Identity: Postcolonial Reading of Space in Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Angelique Sheva Kurniawan (English Literature, Universitas Negeri Semarang)
Zuhrul Anam (English Literature, Universitas Negeri Semarang)



Article Info

Publish Date
06 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study examines how the reservation shape’s identity in Sherman Alexie’s The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian (2007). Rather than treating the setting as a passive background, this paper contributes to postcolonial spatial studies by showing how the reservation actively constructs identity before any physical movement takes place. This qualitative study applies Sara Upstone’s concepts of "place" and "space" to analyze the novel's dialogues, narratives, and events. This specific framework reveals how colonial structures turn the reservation into a fixed "place" of poverty and isolation that Junior internalizes. However, the analysis demonstrates that Junior’s relocation to Reardan transforms this restrictive environment into a flexible "space" for self-definition. In conclusion, the study argues that the reservation is not permanently limiting, but can be transformed into a dynamic environment through individual agency and resistance.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ideas

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IDEAS Journal is published twice a year in the months of June and December (P-ISSN 2338-4778 and E-ISSN 2548-4192); it presents articles on English language teaching and learning, linguistics, and literature. The contents include analyses, studies and application of theories, research report, ...