Medium shapes the message - different perspectives of the story of Chanie Wenjack

Narration

The Novella is a short story told from the voices of the boy, Chanie; a friend of his; and a third person observer. This medium provides a glimpse into the emotions and reactions as told through the characters while still providing details about his life. It is a very personal perspective; making you feel close to the character and feel their pain. 

In the story, the Sucker Fish is used to represent Chanie Wenjack's perspective, told in the first person narrative. You feel a personal connection from this perspective. He talks about his family, his friends and his plans for the day; just like any other little boy. 

The Crow is representing someone from the third person narrative, they are observing the three little boys actions from afar. This allows you to get another perspective on the innocent boys.

Chanie's friend is represented by the Hummingbird. In his words, he tells his challenges as he is traveling through the bush to keep up with his friends. 

Lyrics and Graphics

The Gord Downie songs and the accompanying graphic novel are very emotional. The graphics are shades of grey and blue giving off a very somber feeling. The images show a little boy's sad journey in the residential schools. The message is told with the intent to evoke emotion. The songs are sad, slow and very lyrical. 

The graphics with the music playing helps you visualize his journey and feel as if you were with him. You can see his feelings and expressions shown on his face through the graphics as his journey continues. The film and songs issue more feelings and emotions than details and facts. This demonstrates a deeper message into the story. 

Just the Facts

The Secret Path Website and the Macleans Article from "The lonely death of Chanie Wenjack" provides more facts and details about his story. It gives the back story and history behind the residential schools. This medium provides a factual message, takes a political stand and a call to action.

Reading information from websites and articles will supply you with the details and history more than the emotions and feelings. This can be used more for educational purposes rather than the personal connection and meaning of the story. 

On the website, it takes a political stand talking about how Canada needs to improve and change - a call to action. They want Canada to use this story and learn about it so new generations - like our generation - can make a change and not let history be repeated.