Political Implications of "Accordion Crimes"
E. Annie Proulx's, "Accordion Crimes" takes an in-depth look at many various
immigrant families' social, cultural, religious and ideological contributions to the American
society and political system. Proulx details each ethnic groups' struggle to maintain their
own unique identity. However, each groups' attempts at remaining unique actually
patterns the other. In doing so, these groups actually contribute to form a new "American"
polity. This formation of a new polity is Proulx's theme. The new "American" polity is
formed through hard work, unity and perseverance under fire. They are extremely evident
in the Italian, German and Polish ethnicities.
Proulx introduces the audience to an Italian accordion maker. "The Accordion
Maker," follows this Italian man's journey to the United States. He "thought of a new
life, fresh and unused, of money hanging in the future like pears hidden in high
leaves."(19). Money is a primary apparatus for moving to America. Finding work was
difficult, and he soon learned he must bid for employment. In doing so, the Italian takes a
crash-course in free enterprise: "That is how it works in America...[y]ou must pay to be
paid."(28). So, the Italian did, and worked hard on fruit boats until he saw the
opportunity to sell his hand-crafted accordions.
The German immigrants are also introduced to a free-market economy. They take
a different route, and develop a community called, Prank. "They spent the summer
cultivating and hammering, raising frames and fencing, pacing off new fields for corn and
oats and hay." (60). With their knowledge of farming and carpentry Beutle, Messermacher
and Loats soon find their community thriving. They adapt a philosophy, "Vork hard and
good fortune to come.&quo...