James Tapia’s Reviews > Ceremony > Status Update

I find it ironic that Tayo being the only half breed of his friends truly embodies the culture. He is also the only one that does not go on the destructive path his friends take. It is fulfilling to know that Tayo is finally crossed into the known of his journey and that he is back to "normal." I also finally see the role of Tseh as the goddess that completed Tayo's transition from Atonement to Return.

Tayo's journey has come to a turning point, he is showing signs of very positive progress over his post traumatic stress disorder. The visions of elements that Betonie said come into play with the story. Tayo expriences all four of the elements. Its like a hoop he has gone through, and he is nearing the end of the series of hoops. Tayo has started living the life he had before war.

The introduction of the character Betonie has a positive explanation of the cultural change and impact white society has on the native population. The interconnectedness between the two cultures comes out through Betonies stories. Also Tayo is beginning to progress as a character, having more control over himself in his post war life.

As we begin to progress deeper in the book we learn more about the culture of the Laguna people and the character of Tayo's family members. I feel like Rocky's mother seems to want to appeal to white society. Also soldiers coming back from this war seem to be struggling with this white society, saying the uniform is what made them equal to the others.