Yellow Woman and a Beauty of Spirit

In her critique of the Border Patrol, Silko says that the freedom to travel is an integral aspect of American identity. What does she mean by this? Do you agree? Why or why not?

Silko refers to herself—and indeed all humans—as conflicted. Is Silko herself conflicted? Do you believe her suggestion that humans are, by their essence, conflicted? Why or why not?

Think of the importance that Silko’s community places upon stories/ storytelling. How does this compare to and contrast with your own experiences of storytelling? 

Silko presents much of the trauma faced by Native Americans today as resultant of the loss of their land. Do you believe this is an issue that can be resolved? Why or why not?

How does the Pueblo understanding of identity’s fluctuating nature play into Silko’s construction of her own identity throughout the essays? How does it play into her characterizations of other people?

The giant snake at the Jackpile mine appears frequently throughout these essays. What is its significance?

Describe Pueblo beliefs concerning sexuality, as explained by the narrator. What role does sexuality play within these essays?

Describe Pueblo beliefs concerning time, as explained by the narrator. How is this similar to and different from your own understanding of time?