Indigenous Literature and Worldviews

Indigenous Literature and Worldviews.mp3

Today, we will delve into the rich tapestry of Indigenous literature and explore how Indigenous authors express their worldview through their works.

Indigenous literature is not just a collection of stories, but a profound expression of Indigenous worldviews, values, and histories. It is a medium through which Indigenous authors articulate their unique perspectives on life, society, and the natural world.

Let's start with a famous Indigenous Trickster story. The Trickster, often an animal like the coyote, raven, or hare, is a common figure in Indigenous narratives. These characters are known for their cunning, wit, and ability to shape-shift, often breaking societal norms and causing chaos to teach important lessons.

Consider the story of Nanabozho, a central figure in Ojibwe mythology. In one tale, Nanabozho, in the form of a hare, decides to teach the ducks a lesson for their noisy chatter. He tricks them into closing their eyes and dancing while he picks them off one by one. However, one duck opens its eyes and raises the alarm. Nanabozho is caught and the surviving ducks fly away, leaving him alone. This story teaches the importance of vigilance, the dangers of deceit, and the value of community.

Now, let's connect this to Indigenous literature. The Trickster figure often appears, symbolizing resistance, transformation, and challenging the status quo. For instance, in Thomas King's novel "Green Grass, Running Water", Coyote, a Trickster, disrupts the narrative, challenging Western ideologies and norms. Similarly, in Eden Robinson's "Son of a Trickster", the protagonist Jared embodies Trickster characteristics, navigating a world of chaos and magic.

Indigenous authors use such narratives to express their worldview, often challenging Western perspectives and highlighting Indigenous values of community, respect for nature, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

In Mourning Dove's "Cogewea", the protagonist's struggle between her Indigenous heritage and the encroaching white society reflects the tension between Indigenous and Western worldviews. Richard Wagamese's "Indian Horse" uses the protagonist's journey through residential schools and his passion for hockey to explore the impact of colonialism on Indigenous communities.

Tomson Highway's "Kiss of the Fur Queen" portrays the resilience of Indigenous people and the power of reclaiming one's cultural identity. E. Pauline Johnson's "The Moccasin Maker" explores the complexities of Indigenous identity in a colonized world.

In "Manitowapow", an anthology of Indigenous writings, the diverse voices express their unique worldviews, reflecting the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures. Zebedee Nungak's "Magodiz" and Gordon Henry Jr.'s "The Light People" further illustrate the power of Indigenous storytelling in expressing Indigenous worldviews.

In the digital age, Indigenous literature has also found a home on platforms like Twitter, where Indigenous voices share their stories and perspectives, a phenomenon termed as 'Indigenous twitterature'. This further expands the reach and impact of Indigenous literature.

In conclusion, Indigenous literature serves as a powerful medium for expressing Indigenous worldviews. It challenges dominant narratives, celebrates Indigenous cultures, and advocates for social justice. As we explore these works, let's remember to appreciate the diversity and depth they offer, and the important lessons they teach us about Indigenous cultures and worldviews.

Thank you.

Indigenous Literature and Worldviews

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