English Faculty Publications
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Fall 2009
Publication Source
Studies in American Indian Literatures
Abstract
In this article I first introduce my critical approach to Posey’s life and work in conjunction with an overview of the Fus Fixico Letters, as situated in their historical and cultural context. I position my argument in relation to the ideological framework outlined by Creek/Cherokee writer and theorist Craig Womack (one of the most significant Posey scholars), and throughout the article draw upon the groundbreaking historical and archival research of Daniel Littlefield. Following an introduction to the letters and an outline of my central arguments, I analyze Posey’s conception of transformation, as it manifests in the Fus Fixico Letters, as an alternative to both traditionalist resistance and the assimilationist view that full participation in U.S. society requires the wholesale abandonment of American Indian cultural norms. I follow this discussion with an exploration of the letters’ references to emigration plans vis-à-vis Posey’s vision for transformation. Finally, by way of conclusion, I will offer some thoughts about the implications of Creek emigration plans to Mexico—and their historical precedents—for transnational approaches to Creek culture and literature.
Inclusive pages
1-35
ISBN/ISSN
0730-3238
Document Version
Postprint
Copyright
Copyright © 2009, University of Nebraska Press.
Publisher
University of Nebraska Press
Volume
21
Issue
3
Peer Reviewed
yes
eCommons Citation
Szeghi, Tereza M., "'The Injin is civilized and aint extinct no more than a rabbit': Transformation and Transnationalism in Alexander Posey’s 'Fus Fixico Letters'" (2009). English Faculty Publications. 28.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/eng_fac_pub/28
Comments
The document available for download is the author's accepted manuscript, provided here in compliance with the publisher's policy on self-archiving. Some differences may exist between this document and the published version; as such, those wishing to quote directly from this source are advised to consult the version of record.
Permission documentation is on file.