Recognizing the Importance of Native American Literature

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Our Voice

As someone who has always been fascinated by the rich cultural heritage of Native American communities, we as a student of literature believe that their literature is an invaluable contribution to the literary world. However, it is often overlooked and marginalized in mainstream literary discourse, which is a shame because it contains some of the most profound and thought-provoking works of literature in existence.

 Of Native American Literature:

  • Refers to works written by the indigenous people of the United States and Canada.
  • Also known as American Indian literature or First Nations literature in Canada.
  • Encompasses many different social, cultural, historical, and spiritual perspectives.
  • Originates in the oral traditions of native peoples, but written works have been published since the 1700s.
  • Important ceremonies and religious rituals are often known solely through the spoken word.
  • Has grown steadily since the 1960s.
  • Indigenous literature of Central and South America is often covered under sub-genre Latin American Literature.
  • Indigenous literature of the Caribbean region is often covered under sub-genre Caribbean Literature.

Communalism and the Interconnectedness of All Things

One of the most compelling aspects of Native American literature is the way it challenges Western literary conventions. Unlike traditional Western literature, which often focuses on individualism and the hero's journey, Native American literature is rooted in communalism and the interconnectedness of all things. This is evident in works such as Leslie Marmon Silko's "Ceremony," which explores the interdependence of humans, nature, and the spiritual world.  It explores the complex themes of identity, tradition, and healing.:

"“The only way to get change is not through the courts or — heaven forbid — the politicians, but through a change of human consciousness and through a change of heart. Only through the arts — music, poetry, dance, painting, writing — "can we really reach each other,” 

― Leslie Marmon Silko, Ceremony

Voice Against Oppression and Erasure of Indigenous Peoples

Apache Maiden

Furthermore, Native American literature often serves as a powerful form of resistance against the systemic oppression and erasure of Indigenous peoples. By telling their own stories and reclaiming their own narratives, Native American writers are able to challenge the dominant cultural narrative that has historically silenced their voices. This is exemplified in works such as Louise Erdrich's "Love Medicine," which explores the impact of colonization and assimilation on Indigenous communities, explores the themes of family, identity, and the intersection of Native American and Western cultures. :

“Your life feels different on you, once you greet death and understand your heart’s position. You wear your life like a garment from the mission bundle sale ever after – lightly because you realize you never paid nothing for it, cherishing because you know you won’t ever come by such a bargain again.”

― Louise Erdrich, Love Medicine

Fight the Myth of "Vanishing Indian" 

However, despite the undeniable value of Native American literature, it continues to be marginalized and excluded from mainstream literary discourse. This is due in part to the pervasive myth of the "vanishing Indian," which portrays Native Americans as a dying culture rather than a living and thriving community. This myth is perpetuated by the lack of representation of Native American writers in publishing and literary awards, which reinforces the notion that their stories are not as valuable or worthy of recognition as those of their non-Native counterparts.

The Critique

It is crucial that we challenge this narrative and recognize the importance of Native American literature in the literary canon. This means not only elevating the works of Native American writers but also engaging in critical commentary that takes into account the unique cultural context and perspective of their works. It also means amplifying the voices of Native American writers and scholars who are working tirelessly to bring attention to the value and significance of their literary contributions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Native American literature is an essential and valuable part of the literary canon that challenges Western literary conventions and serves as a powerful form of resistance against the systemic oppression of Indigenous peoples. It is our responsibility as readers and scholars to recognize and elevate the works of Native American writers and engage in critical commentary that takes into account their unique cultural context and perspective. Only by doing so can we truly appreciate the profound and thought-provoking works of literature that Native American communities have to offer.

Ardhendu De

Reference

1. Elliott, M. A., & Weaver, J. (1998, December). That the People Might Live: Native American Literatures and Native American Community. American Literature, 70(4), 900. https://doi.org/10.2307/2902396

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