Song of the Sky Loom and Hunting Song

“Song of the Sky Loom” and “Hunting Song” Sacred words from Tewa and Navajo songs

Build Background n n n Tewa: Song of the Sky Loom Pueblo Indians from New Mexico Sang song in religious rituals Sky Loom used as a symbol n n n Navajo: The Hunting Song Originally a tribe of hunters and gatherers Migrated to SW in 11 th century and became herders and farmers Song was a gift from the god of sunrise and game animals

Symbolism n n the use of objects to represent ideas or qualities. Symbolism is used to n Emphasize key ideas or themes Examples: n Lord of the Rings: The ring represents the power of good and evil n Hatchet The hatchet represents survival n The Hunger Games n The Mockingjay represents _____?

Repetition n The recurrence of words, phrases, or lines in a piece of literature.

Functions of repetition in Native American songs n n n Creates a regular rhythm for dancing Reinforces important ideas Makes a song easier to remember Gives power to a song Has a hypnotic effect on the consciousness

Active Reading Tips to Remember n n Read songs aloud Visualize the singers and the occasion for the song Speculate deeper, nonliteral meanings (ie. garment of brightness) Be aware of feelings toward nature and the universe

Visualize singers and occasion n n Song of the Sky Loom People relaxing after work Gathered together in ceremony Pleased, happy and fulfilled n n n Hunting Song Singer is hungry but hopeful Hunter hidden in the flowery meadow

Discuss in your small groups Analyze the symbols in each song. What might they represent? Song of the Sky Loom The Hunting Song Mother Earth and Father Sky: Blackbird: Garment of Brightness: Other examples? Weft, warp, fringes, border:

Nonliteral meanings n n n Song of the Sky Loom Earth and sky as parents, deserving of gifts, and able to bestow gifts to children Garment weaved from morning and evening light, rain and rainbows n n Hunting Song The blackbird, favorite companion of the deer, may represent a desire that draws one to death

Discuss in your small groups What can you infer about the connection the Tewa and the Navajo have with nature from the songs you heard? Tewa Navajo

Feelings about nature n n n Song of the Sky Loom The singers view nature reverently, as their parents. Singer wishes to wear a mystical garment woven by nature n n n Hunting Song The singer believes he can communicate with nature and influence it by singing. He is coaxing the deer to participate in a cycle of death with brings life.

Connect to life n How do the attitudes toward nature expressed in these songs compare with the attitudes toward nature in American society today?