"I used to object to being called an Indian writer, and would always say I was a writer who happened to be an Indian, and who happened to write about Indians"

In the quote by James Welch, the author reveals a nuanced point of view on identity and classification, particularly in relation to his work and heritage. Welch, known for his substantial contributions to Native American literature, elaborates on the intricacies of specifying an artist exclusively by their ethnic background. By stating, "I utilized to object to being called an Indian writer", Welch shows a resistance to being pigeonholed based on his ethnic culture. This resistance suggests a desire for acknowledgment beyond the labels and stereotypes typically associated with Native American authors.

Welch's subsequent clarification, "I was a writer who took place to be an Indian, and who took place to discuss Indians", reflects a focus on his identity as a writer firstly. This places his cultural identity as a vital, yet not all-encompassing, aspect of his persona and work. By describing himself as an author "who happened to be an Indian", Welch acknowledges his heritage without permitting it to entirely define his expert identity. This phrasing suggests that while his background informs his point of view and styles, it does not confine the scope of his innovative expression.

Moreover, the difference of "who took place to discuss Indians" highlights the voluntary and deliberate exploration of his cultural experiences within his writing. By framing it as an option rather than a commitment, Welch highlights his company in choosing how and when to draw from his heritage. This talks to a more comprehensive commentary on the freedom of any artist to go beyond the simple categories typically enforced by external observers.

In essence, Welch's declaration supporters for a recognition of the plurality and richness of artistic identity, which can concurrently accept cultural roots while striving for universal themes and stories. By challenging narrow labels, Welch invites readers and critics to engage with his works through a more expansive and inclusive lens that honors both uniqueness and shared human experiences.