The title, “Skunk Dreams,” did not arouse my attention and I prejudged its content. However, as the story progressed, I found myself becoming more intrigued by the plot. Erdrich’s style of writing is different from other authors that I have read. It requires a certain philosophical frame of mind to follow the numerous descriptions back to the main point. These images, while at times not needed, do a great job at making the reader feel, smell, hear, and see what Erdrich is describing. Although I first doubted that a story with such a drab label could contain an intriguing plot, I was pleasantly surprised. Being an outdoorsman, I can sympathize with Erdrich and her struggle (or her character’s struggle) with changing landscapes. Nevertheless, I do not believe that the event with the skunk or the rapid change of scenery is what Erdrich wanted to capitalize on. Throughout the story, dreams constantly remained at the forefront. From what I understand, dreams are created by the brain pulling on past experiences, emotions, and beliefs. Nevertheless, that doesn’t explain Erdrich’s dream of the wildlife preserve before ever visiting it. This paradox is what Erdrich poses to the readers. Are there any limits to a dreamer, whether human or animal, that even the future may be told?
Is it possible that dreams also have an effect on future events in one's life? I don't believe this is viable without the intervention of a higher power. Perhaps we will never know, but it is an interesting question to ponder.
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