In chapter 18 of Touching Spirit Bear, Cole primarily focuses on rebuilding his shelter, feeling frustrated by Edwin and Garvey's refusal to offer physical assistance despite his injured arm.
Cole's Continued Journey on the Island
The eighteenth chapter depicts a significant day for Cole Matthews as he wakes up and dedicates himself to the arduous process of constructing his shelter. This persistent effort underscores his commitment to the healing process and his continued journey through the Circle Justice program on the remote Alaskan island.
The Dynamics of Labor and Mentorship
A central theme of the chapter revolves around the interaction, or lack thereof, between Cole and his mentors, Edwin and Garvey.
- Cole's Solitary Work: Cole shoulders the physical burden of building the shelter largely by himself. This demanding labor is made even more challenging by the fact that he is still recovering from his previous ordeal, specifically noting his bad arm. His physical limitation amplifies the difficulty of the task.
- Edwin and Garvey's Role: Contrary to Cole's expectation of assistance, Edwin and Garvey adopt a hands-off approach. They refuse to help with the physical work, choosing instead to merely sit there and offer him suggestions. This observational and advisory role, while perhaps intended to foster Cole's independence and sense of responsibility, becomes a source of significant irritation for him.
The contrast in roles is evident: Cole is the active laborer, while Edwin and Garvey act as passive observers and verbal guides. This dynamic sparks Cole's frustration, highlighting the internal and external challenges he continues to face on the island.
| Character | Primary Activity | Impact on Cole |
|---|---|---|
| Cole Matthews | Waking up, spending the day working on his shelter | Frustrated, challenged by his bad arm |
| Edwin & Garvey | Refusing to help physically, offering suggestions | Source of Cole's peeved attitude |
This chapter vividly portrays Cole's ongoing struggle with accountability and the nuanced methods employed by his mentors to guide him towards self-reliance and true healing.
