The Outside Circle

Masks have a significant symbolic role in The Outside Circle. There are two distinct types of masks in the novel. The first is the red and white mask worn by Pete when he becomes aggressive, such as during the incident with Dennis. This mask, as explained by Elder Violet, symbolizes “rage and hate […] covering the [person he really is]” (94). It serves as a protective mechanism to shield Pete from emotional harm as a consequence of the trauma that he has endured. When Pete learns of Joey’s arrest, the mask cracks, revealing his vulnerability and deep concern for his brother. When discussing his family, the mask appears, symbolizing Pete’s defensiveness to avoid feeling pain. However, on Page 64, Violet performs a smudging ritual, and as she holds the herbs in front of Pete’s face, the mask slowly dissolves, representing his inner cleansing.

The second type of mask is the one that Violet asks the men to craft for themselves and paint with colors of their own choosing. These masks serve as a symbol of the men’s true selves—“who [they] truly are” as individuals (102). Pete’s newly created mask features his spirit animal, the bear, reflecting his acceptance of his inner spirit. This marks the culmination of his healing journey and his reconnection with his Indigenous heritage.

In many Indigenous cultures in North America, bears are emblematic of medicine, strength, and courage; they are viewed as protectors and healers. In Pete’s journey, the bear holds a profound significance, symbolizing his true self and conveying the theme of The Possibility of Healing and Personal Growth. The bear first appears in the illustration on Page 77 when Pete lets out his anguish following his mother’s death. Here, the bear seems to break free from Pete, signifying that he is finally expressing his genuine emotions and unleashing his true self.

While in the bush, tasked with the mission of “reconnecting with [his] true inner person” (95), Pete is unsure of his identity. As Violet performs a smudge ceremony to help him, the illustrations on Page 97 reveal bear pawprints within the steam, a subtle foreshadowing of Pete’s authentic self. That night, the bear manifests himself to Pete. Violet explains that the bear has “woken up from a long winter sleep” (103), mirroring Pete’s own awakening to his genuine self. Upon receiving his spirit name, Waking Bear, Pete symbolically emerges from his healing journey as a renewed individual, profoundly connected to his Indigenous heritage.

Pete solidifies this newfound identity by adorning his mask with a bear design. As Pete understands The Importance of Community and Family Bonds, he gifts his daughter, Shayla, a teddy bear, symbolically gifting her his authentic self. The bear also stands as a symbolically protective presence behind Pete as he confronts his former gang members, determined not to go back to his old life.