The Buffalo Hunter Hunter: A Deep Dive into Stephen Graham Jones’s Latest Novel
Introduction to the Narrative
Stephen Graham Jones’s latest novel, The Buffalo Hunter Hunter, is a compelling exploration of Indigenous identity, historical trauma, and the supernatural. Set against the backdrop of the 1870 Marias Massacre, where U.S. Army troops brutally killed nearly 200 unarmed members of the Blackfeet Nation, the narrative intertwines real historical events with elements of horror and fantasy. The protagonist, Good Stab, is an Indigenous man grappling with the violent legacy of colonization while navigating a world filled with supernatural threats.
Good Stab: The Reluctant Hero
Good Stab, the central character, embodies the struggles of his people. As a member of the Blackfeet tribe, he is not only a survivor of the historical atrocities inflicted upon his community but also a reluctant participant in a supernatural battle. His journey begins with a violent encounter with a wagon train of white settlers, which leads to his transformation into a vampire after a fateful meeting with the Cat Man, a centuries-old vampire. This transformation serves as a metaphor for the loss of innocence and the burdens of survival in a world that has been hostile to his existence.
The Cat Man: A Complex Antagonist
The Cat Man, a charismatic yet bloodthirsty creature, adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Freed from captivity, he becomes a formidable adversary to Good Stab, preying on his tribe and embodying the very violence that has historically oppressed Indigenous peoples. The dynamic between Good Stab and the Cat Man is not merely one of hunter and hunted; it reflects a deeper commentary on the cyclical nature of violence and revenge. As both characters seek vengeance against white settlers, their paths become inexorably linked, highlighting the blurred lines between predator and prey.
Vampiric Living: A Unique Take on the Genre
Jones’s approach to vampirism in The Buffalo Hunter Hunter diverges from traditional portrayals found in classic literature like Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Instead of the cloaked, aristocratic figures of European lore, Jones presents vampires as High Plains drifters who must drain their victims completely to sustain their existence. This stark portrayal challenges the romanticized notions of vampirism, grounding it in the harsh realities of survival in the 19th-century American West. The vampires in this narrative are not merely monsters; they are reflections of the historical and ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous peoples.
Cultural Commentary and Historical Context
At its core, The Buffalo Hunter Hunter serves as a poignant commentary on the historical injustices faced by Native Americans. The novel does not shy away from depicting the brutality of colonization, using the supernatural elements to amplify the horror of real historical events. The phrase “The only good Indian is a dead Indian,” attributed to General Philip Sheridan, looms large over the narrative, serving as a grim reminder of the systemic violence that Indigenous peoples have endured. Through Good Stab’s journey, Jones confronts this legacy, allowing readers to engage with the complexities of identity, survival, and resistance.
Themes of Identity and Transformation
The themes of identity and transformation are central to the narrative. Good Stab’s metamorphosis into a vampire symbolizes the loss of his former self and the struggle to reclaim agency in a world that seeks to erase his existence. As he grapples with his new identity, the novel raises questions about what it means to be Indigenous in a contemporary context. The blending of horror and cultural identity invites readers to reflect on the ongoing impact of colonialism and the resilience of Indigenous cultures.
Humor Amidst Horror
Despite its dark themes, The Buffalo Hunter Hunter is infused with a mordant sense of humor. Jones skillfully balances the gruesome elements of the story with moments of levity, allowing readers to navigate the horror without becoming overwhelmed. This humor serves as a coping mechanism for the characters and, by extension, the readers, providing a necessary respite from the weight of the narrative’s historical context.
Conclusion: A Gruesome Joyride
In The Buffalo Hunter Hunter, Stephen Graham Jones masterfully weaves together horror, history, and cultural commentary to create a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The interplay between Good Stab and the Cat Man, set against the backdrop of the Marias Massacre, invites readers to confront the complexities of Indigenous identity and the legacy of violence. With its unique take on vampirism and its exploration of survival, the novel stands as a testament to Jones’s ability to blend genres while addressing profound social issues. As readers delve into this gruesome joyride, they are left to ponder the haunting echoes of history and the resilience of those who continue to fight for their place in the world.
