Chapter 4 Summary

The history of Alaska, from its early explorations by sailors like Bering and Magellan, to its current appearance as illustrated in the description of Kuinak and the surrounding bay, are explained. Briefly thought to be an outlet from the mythical Northwest Passage, Kuinak is generally abandoned by everyone except for the native inhabitants and some adventurers looking for a new life. Ike lives in a red trailer on the edge of town and wishes to be left alone.

Chapter 4 Analysis

The historical descriptions of Kuinak continue on to show the development of the town, almost as a character itself. Kuinak and the surrounding area are explored with a possible promising future only to be shown time and time again that Kuinak does not live up to its promise. Kuinak's connection to the sought-out Northwest Passage is one of many attempts to link Kuinak...