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Analyzing the Article, The Woman Who Fell from the Sky
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Analyzing the Article, The Woman Who Fell from the Sky
Harjo's fascinating novel "The Woman Who Fell from the Sky" explores deep issues of
identity and genealogy, healing, and human development. Using the tale of a woman falling from
the sky, Harjo deftly combines aspects of Native American mythology, current events, and
spirituality (Harjo, 1996). This essay evaluates the main themes of the tale and assesses how well
the story conveys its point.
The Influence of Genealogical Lineage
In "The Woman Who Fell from the Sky," Harjo highlights the role of ancestry in defining
a person's identity and directing them toward emotional healing. The main character starts a life-
changing journey to reestablish her connection with her ancestors and discover her true purpose
after falling from the sky and arriving on Earth (Harjo, 1996). Harjo investigates that a thorough
awareness of one's ancestry could be a potent source of healing and transformation through this
journey.
The epiphany that "your life is a result of the love of thousands" is best exemplified by
the heroine's encounter with the wise old woman. This chapter underscores the need to
respect and honour the love and sacrifices made by predecessors and the interconnectivity of all
creatures. It emphasizes that we may find comfort and strength by acknowledging and
appreciating our ancestry. To underline even more the connection between origin and human
development, Harjo also weaves Native American mythology into the story. The primary
protagonist, for example, comes across several legendary animals and spirits that act as mentors
for her (Harjo, 1996). These interactions symbolize the protagonist's growing ties to her lineage
and her readiness to absorb the knowledge of her forefathers.
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As to Harjo's assertion, a person may better comprehend themselves and their role in the
world by exploring the wisdom and guidance found in Native American mythology. Native
American cultural identity has been severely damaged by colonialism and the elimination of
indigenous knowledge and customs; this mythological study also helps to restore and maintain
that identity. The article also heavily incorporates visuals of the natural world. In addition to
highlighting the connection between people and the environment, Harjo employs evocative
depictions of the natural world to inspire awe and contemplation (Harjo, 1996). The author also
implies that self-acceptance and healing may be attained by reestablishing a connection with
nature and understanding our role by enveloping the protagonist in its beauty and force.
Additionally, the piece explores how colonialism affected Native American tribes.
Examining the pain and grief that Native Americans have endured over generations, Harjo
highlights how important it is to recognize and treat these wounds. The heroine can establish her
agency and recover her cultural identity in a society that attempts to minimize her presence
through storytelling (Harjo, 1996). Concerning past and current oppression, this narrative method
emphasizes the tenacity and power of Native American communities.
Recovering from Trauma and Discovering Self-Acceptance
The significance of self-acceptance and the healing process are other major themes in
"The Woman Who Fell from the Sky." The main character struggles to recover from past trauma
and come to terms with who she is, symbolized by her descent to Earth. Harjo masterfully
expresses this idea as the protagonist reflects, "I was a woman who had fallen from the sky. I
was the woman my mother and father had stitched together. And I was the woman who had
fallen" (Harjo, 1996). This quotation expresses the protagonist's conclusion that facing her
history and embracing her whole being—her faults and weaknesses included—are necessary
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steps toward recovery. It emphasizes how overcoming hardship and accepting oneself may have
a profoundly positive impact.
Harjo also uses imagery from nature and symbolism to examine the idea of healing. The
protagonist's relationship with the Earth and the environment's inherent healing qualities are
embodied via encounters with animals, rivers, mountains, and other natural elements (Harjo,
1996). Through these contacts, the heroine gradually learns to find solace and strength in nature,
aiding her recovery.
I found Harjo's "The Woman Who Fell from the Sky" to be a very poignant and thought-
provoking work of fiction that resonated. The reader is fully drawn into the world of Santee, the
protagonist, thanks to Harjo's skilful use of language and narrative. Harjo delicately and
thoughtfully examines the concepts of identity and heritage via her colourful and engrossing
words. With its in-depth and approachable analysis of the nuances of cultural identity, the book
invites readers to reflect on the resilient spirit of Native American communities (Harjo, 1996).
Harjo's literature bridges the past and the present by highlighting the effects of colonialism and
the significance of regaining cultural heritage. The article is a fascinating and educational book,
in my opinion, for anybody who wants to learn more about the complexities of cultural identity
and the tenacity of Native American tribes.
Conclusion
Harjo's deep work of fiction, "The Woman Who Fell from the Sky," explores self-
acceptance, healing, and ancestry themes. Harjo skillfully illustrates the significance of accepting
one's origins and the strength of ancestry throughout the protagonist's journey of change and
rediscovery. In addition, the story masterfully examines the healing process and highlights the
value of accepting oneself and seeking comfort in nature (Harjo, 1996). Harjo's work is a
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fascinating investigation of the human spirit's potential for development, healing, and self-
discovery.
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References
Harjo, J. (1996). The Woman Who Fell from the Sky: Poems. In Google Books. W. W. Norton &
Company. https://books.google.co.ke/books?
id=a5PPEAAAQBAJ&source=gbs_book_other_versions
