The Symbolism of the Red Convertible in Louise Erdrich's Short Story

Introduction

Louise Erdrich's short story, "The Red Convertible," explores the profound symbolism encapsulated within the titular automobile. The red convertible serves as a central motif that mirrors the evolving bond between two Native American brothers, Lyman and Henry. This essay delves into the layers of symbolism embedded in the red convertible, reflecting the shifts in their relationship as influenced by external forces, particularly the Vietnam War. Through the transformation of the car, Erdrich masterfully conveys the emotional journey of the characters and the ultimate tragedy that befalls their brotherly connection.

The Red Convertible as a Symbol of Brotherhood

At the story's outset, the red Oldsmobile convertible represents the vibrant and unbreakable bond between Lyman and Henry. The brothers jointly purchase the car, embarking on a memorable summer road trip that takes them across the country, including a voyage to Alaska. The condition of the convertible mirrors the strength of their relationship, both of which are in prime shape. Throughout their journey, they revel in each other's company, cherishing the freedom and joy of the open road.

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Erdrich's description of their road trip, "We’d made most of the trip, that summer, without putting up the car hood at all. We got home just in time," underscores the harmony between the brothers and the impeccable condition of the convertible (Erdrich 327). The car becomes a symbol of their brotherhood's vigor, a testament to the unbreakable bond they share.

The War's Impact on the Red Convertible and Brotherhood

As Henry is drafted into the Vietnam War, the narrative takes a poignant turn.

The letters exchanged between Lyman and Henry during Henry's deployment are starkly imbalanced, with Lyman penning numerous missives while receiving only two responses. Concurrently, the once-magnificent red convertible falls into disrepair, languishing "up on blocks in the yard or half taken apart" (Erdrich 327).

This transformation of the car reflects the disruption in their brotherly bond caused by the war. The car's deterioration signifies the stagnation of their relationship during Henry's absence. The "half taken apart" state of the car symbolizes their fractured connection, hinting at the challenges that lie ahead in repairing what was once unblemished (Erdrich 327).

The Damaging of the Red Convertible

Upon Henry's return from the war, Lyman's futile attempts to restore the red convertible to its former glory mirror his desire to mend the fractured relationship with his brother. However, as Henry remains emotionally scarred and unresponsive, Lyman's frustration escalates. In a fit of anger and desperation, Lyman purposefully damages the car, aligning its condition with the disarrayed state of their brotherhood.

Henry's stoic response to the car's damage further underscores the severity of his emotional wounds, mirroring his own reluctance to engage with Lyman. Lyman's remark, "Now I don’t even know if I can get it to start again, let alone get it anywhere near its old condition," metaphorically illustrates the irreparable nature of their relationship at this juncture (Erdrich 328).

The Ill-Fated River Journey

The climax of the story occurs when Henry, after restoring the car, joins Lyman for a leisurely drive to the river. Initially, it appears that their brotherly bond is on the path to recovery. They laugh and share jokes, suggesting that their relationship is returning to its former vibrancy. However, upon reaching the river, a conflict ensues over ownership of the red convertible.

This conflict reflects the deeper emotional turmoil that lingers beneath the surface. The scuffle represents their unresolved issues and the struggle to reclaim their pre-war closeness. The momentary reconciliation is shattered as they fight, revealing the fragility of their connection.

The story's tragic denouement occurs when Henry jumps into the river, and Lyman futilely attempts to save him. The car, laden with symbolism, follows a similar fate as Lyman drives it into the river, mirroring the tragic drowning of their brotherhood.

Conclusion

Louise Erdrich's "The Red Convertible" skillfully employs the red convertible as a symbol to depict the profound shifts in the relationship between two Native American brothers, Lyman and Henry. The car, initially emblematic of their unbreakable bond, undergoes a transformation paralleling the impact of the Vietnam War on their brotherhood. As the car deteriorates and is eventually destroyed, it mirrors the disintegration of their once-strong connection.

The story serves as a poignant exploration of the toll that war and trauma can exact on familial relationships. Through the symbolism of the red convertible, Erdrich captures the complexities of brotherhood, the enduring scars of war, and the tragic consequences of unresolved emotional turmoil. "The Red Convertible" is a powerful narrative that resonates with readers, inviting reflection on the enduring bonds of family and the devastating effects of conflict.