what lessons does parson elder try to teach true son

3 min read 16-01-2025

what lessons does parson elder try to teach true son

Parson Elder, a pivotal figure in the novel "True Son" by John Phillip St. Clair, plays a crucial role in shaping True Son's understanding of himself and the world. He doesn't offer direct, didactic lessons, but rather imparts wisdom through actions, stories, and subtle guidance. This article explores the key lessons Parson Elder attempts to teach True Son, highlighting the complexities of their relationship and its lasting impact.

The Importance of Identity and Heritage

One of Parson Elder's primary goals is to help True Son grapple with his complex identity. Torn between his Cherokee heritage and his upbringing in white society, True Son struggles to reconcile these conflicting aspects of himself. Elder doesn't try to force True Son to choose one identity over the other. Instead, he encourages him to explore his heritage, understand its significance, and embrace both sides of himself. This is shown through his acceptance of True Son’s mixed blood and helping him learn Cherokee ways. He understands the importance of heritage and its relationship with self-esteem.

Understanding the Past to Shape the Future

Parson Elder uses storytelling to help True Son understand his past and how it shapes his present and future. He shares historical accounts of Cherokee culture and their interactions with white settlers. This isn't just about imparting historical facts. Rather, it's about helping True Son understand the complexities of his heritage, the injustices faced by his people, and the importance of preserving their traditions. These stories provide context, allowing True Son to process his own experiences and forge his own path.

The Value of Education and Knowledge

Elder recognizes the power of education and its role in empowering True Son. He understands that education can provide True Son with the tools he needs to navigate a world that often works against him. By providing him with access to books and encouraging his curiosity, Elder shows True Son the value of knowledge beyond mere survival. This education empowers True Son, giving him a voice and a means of understanding the complexities of the world around him. It is more than reading and writing, it opens his eyes to a larger world.

Embracing Compassion and Forgiveness

Parson Elder also teaches True Son the importance of compassion and forgiveness. Although he doesn't condone the injustices suffered by the Cherokee people, he encourages True Son to develop empathy towards those who have wronged him. This is not about forgetting the past, but rather learning to move forward without being consumed by bitterness. This lesson is particularly relevant given True Son's experiences with racism and displacement. Forgiveness is not about condoning bad acts, but about breaking free from the cycle of hate.

The Challenges of Moral Ambiguity

It's essential to acknowledge that Parson Elder’s teachings are not without their complexities. He operates within a system that is inherently unjust and biased against the Cherokee people. His attempts to help True Son navigate this system are often fraught with moral ambiguity. He doesn’t offer easy answers, instead showing True Son the difficulty of making choices in a world filled with contradictions. He demonstrates that even well-intentioned actions can have unintended consequences.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy

Parson Elder's influence on True Son is profound and lasting. He doesn't provide simple answers or easy solutions. Instead, he equips True Son with the tools and understanding he needs to navigate a complex and often hostile world. Through stories, education, and quiet guidance, Elder helps True Son discover his identity, embrace his heritage, and find his own path forward. These lessons of identity, knowledge, compassion, and the acceptance of moral complexities remain central to True Son's journey throughout the novel. The impact of Elder's teaching is felt long after their interactions end.