Content Warning: This section discusses racism, colonialism and colonial violence, sexual assault, and alcohol addiction.

“We Crow were one large tribe, made up of many villages that came together in the summer months, not just to visit and have fun, but because there was safety in numbers from our enemies. In winter we dispersed again into small villages to ensure that everyone could find good shelter, a sufficient wood supply, and plenty of elk and buffalo for food.”

Grissom provides insight into the traditional life of the Crow tribe. The tribe leads a nomadic life premised on the principles of sharing, community, and sustenance. Crow Mary’s identity is rooted in such cultural values, which define her character arc despite the impact of colonization on Indigenous tradition.

“No one is without fear. There will be times in your life when you will be very afraid, maybe as afraid as you were with your grandmother. But the brave take action in spite of that fear.”

The above quotation reflects the Crow concept of bravery through Red Fox’s teachings. Red Fox challenges stereotypical notions of the Indigenous “brave” and “warrior,” suggesting that bravery is a spiritual principle that defies gender categories. Crow Mary embodies his teachings, manifesting bravery against colonial violence and erasure throughout the story.

“You already know that the white wolf is my medicine—my protector and spirit animal. With his fur as part of my medicine bundle, I will never hunt him again. When you become my wife, I will ask the same of you.”

Wolves and dogs function as a motif throughout the novel, symbolizing tribal belonging, harmony with nature, and hope for a better future. The idea of the “spirit animal” is a spiritual symbol integral to the Crow culture. In this quotation, Big Cloud describes his spiritual connection to the wolf, foreshadowing the ominous presence of the wolfers later in the novel. As the wolfers kill wolves to profit from their furs, they pose a threat against Indigenous lives.