Storyteller

Leslie Marmon Silko's book STORYTELLER is definitely unique, both in its physical presentation and content. Physically, the book itself was printed lengthwise, or horizontally, as opposed to a regular book, which is printed vertically. The words within, when written in prose, are printed vertically in two columns. However, STORYTELLER is also unique in that it also contains poetry, though perhaps not in a form you are used to. Silko also included pictures, which she describes as being connected to the stories.I was required to read sections of STORYTELLER as part of an English 200 course. It was unique in the sense that it contains many stories, which were orally passed down by the Laguna Pueblo people for generations before finally being written down. The stories were not used by the Laguna to reprimand tribe members, or teach them a lesson, but rather to give them inspiration and sometimes provide them with the origin of a particular tribe custom. The stories illustrate the concepts and beliefs of American Indians, specifically the Laguna people. I was also required to write a paper on this book tying the cultural ideas of the natives to the stories. When writing this paper, I included some concepts of the Native American people, which readers can see within the poems and stories. Here are some you can pick up in the stories contained in STORYTELLER:1) The concept that the universe is unified, and no being or object is above another. There is no hierarchy of supernatural, natural, and humankind in Native American beliefs like there is in Western, Christian beliefs.2) All beings have the power to create. Animate and inanimate objects are directly related to each other, and often appear one.3) Symbolism in Native American theology is not the same as symbolism in Western culture. The symbols of the native people are literal metaphors; they are not similes, and do not stand for something. For example, you will read about the Buffalo People and Spider Woman. The buffalo ARE the people and the spider IS the woman. There is no "like" here. Native American symbolism articulates reality.4) Cyclical time. The Laguna do not measure time in a linear way like we do. Every is continuous, including the seasons. Thus, their stories can not be pinpointed to one moment in time.5) Lack of emotion. The Laguna people do not mention emotions in their story like we do. You will not see a story stating, "The woman felt happy," and if you do, it shows the Western influence of Silko's Aunt Susie, who articulates these stories. Native Americans feel as though emotions are personal, and to imitate the emotions of others trespasses on personal integrity.Naturally, there are many other Native American beliefs expressed within the stories, and I found picking these elements out fascinating and surprisingly quite enjoyable despite my extreme dislike when it comes to writing a literary analysis. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the Native American people, or someone who enjoys something different from "normal" literature.If you are purchasing this book for school, and need to write an essay on it, or if you are reading this for personal enjoyment and don't understand the stories/poems, I suggest taking a look at the following essays, which will explain what goes on in Native American literature:Paula Gunn Allen's essay "The Sacred Hoop: A Contemporary Perspective," contained within STUDIES IN AMERICAN LITERATURE: CRITICAL ESSAYS AND COURSE DESIGNS. I read pages 3-22, which was very helpful in understanding this book.Leslie Marmon Silko's essay titled "Language and Literature frrom a Pueblo Indian Perspective," contained in YELLOW WOMAN AND A BEAUTY OF THE SPIRIT: ESSAYS ON NATIVE AMERICAN LIFE TODAY. I read pages 48-59.I hope this was helpful!5/5 Stars

I have just read Ceremony again and was also so inspired by this book.The depth of knowledge and her amazing way of presenting it really spoke to me.Leslie Marmon Silko is one of the outstanding voices of Native CultureWho are bringing traditional oral history to the written page.This is a wonderful book.

This is one very strange book. First chapter was difficult to get though. Second chapter was impossible.

Wonderful book, if nothing else, it is notable for its unique organization. It has a create approach to telling multiple stories. Some of these are personal stories, some are legends, some are stories of people Silko knew. Others are passed down through generations of her family. there are songs and poems and photographs. This is a fun read and can be read many times with new meaning found each time.

Indian stories by Indian.

I learned so much about Native American storytelling and history from the format and context of this book. It really encouraged me to think outside my culture.

Second book read by this author...first on being The Turquoise Ledge, which I liked even more. Excellent reads

Having lived on the Navajo Reservation for many years, I have seen so many strange things and witnessed many ceremonies. Unexplainable things - wonderful things - and this telling explains so much about a wonderful deep rich culture!

So gorgeously written AND presented

Excellent book, arrived in perfect condition.

son monde est riche et beau pres de la nature en dehors de tous nos stereotypes respectueuse et insolente selonauteure importante pour notre époque fatiguée d'avance