Walking Forward

Having read the narration that follows, written by poet Lou Reeves and read at Boreal III   Literatura hispánica y el Mosaico canadiense (Hispanic Literature and the Canadian Mosaic) makes the reader think about the displacement of humans from their native lands as well as the nomadic condition that is within humans. Ever since the beginning of time humans have experienced a never-ending quest in search of a better life exercising an inherent need for exploration. People move around from place to place discovering new geographies and new ways of life. Along this migrations humans form groups, tribes and nations that affords them the necessary strength to survive as a cohesive entity. This process of nation building always begins with certain individuals that are the pioneers of such an enterprise. Along this progression, those who are constantly moving, traveling, etc., to arrive at new territories are looked upon as the “others”, “outsiders”, “strangers”, etc., by those who by reasons of timing have gotten there first. Being different, specially in terms of color of skin or speaking a different language, has the effect of bringing forth in people who inhabit the lands were there travelers arrive, all kinds prejudices without even knowing these new or different people. This reaction is as old as humans themselves, but as societies have progressed so this fears towards the “strangers” has diminished.

Although the attitude towards the new immigrants changed greatly in the last part of twentieth century in all latitudes, there are still a lot changes needed specially in blending societies like Canada, to achieve equal right for everyone.

Lou Reeves narrative is a reminder that the best of the human spirit and bravery are necessary in adverse situations such as living in a different society, like his Mother came to experience in Canada of the 30’s and 40’s, and Lou himself experienced growing up “different” in Canadian schoolyards and cities. There are many types of reactions when we face discrimination. Through our literature we can denounce and condemn acts like this, but in Lou’s case as this book confirms, there is not a single grain of bitterness nor condemnation but the simple fact of telling it like it was, pure and simple. We can perceive rather in Lou’s narration, a reassuring compromise with the truth and the search for refuge in all of nature’s splendor and protection as opposed to human folly.

If we look to our past trying to come to terms with what we are, as Lou Reeves does in this relation, and are at peace with our lives; and if we continue to look to the promise of a propitious future without harming the harmony between nature and life itself, then we can continue to walk forward along with the words written in these pages.

Luciano P. Díaz
El Dorado