The Pollen Path: A Collection of Navajo Myths

by Margaret Schevill Link, Joseph L. Henderson

Originally published in 1956, this classic volume presents the essence of the Navajo Way, its stories and traditions. The stories are complemented by Navajo artist Andy Tsihnajinnie's line drawings, Dr. Joseph Henderson's psychological commentary, and Linle's first-hand observations of Navajo ceremonial life.

Genres: Indigenous

224 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1956

Reviews

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

My top recommendation for those interested in Navajo Mythology. Includes the primary mythology, well written, with personal biography and some analysis in the second half of the book. Very accessible.

[Mills College Library]

398.097 S328p 1998

[Zach]

The Pollen Path is a stirring collection of Navajo myths -- each with the potential to open new vistas, each filled with countless talismans. The appendix is also a treasure trove filled with insights and explorations of Navajo chants, myths, gods, medicine men, medicine women, and sand paintings. The few dozen songs that are included offer so much that it's hard to put into words. Here's a favorite passage from the Mountain Chant:

"There was a maiden who became a bear
And she walked and wandered far.
Far around her spread the land,
But it was not far to her.
Dim in the distance spread the land,
But it was not dim to her."

A psychological commentary is also included, which does a great job opening up some of the symbols. Here's a favorite passage:

"Link makes it clear that the determination of He-Who-Teaches-Himself to undertake such a journey represents the need of an individual to disidentify with the collective norm, to find the depths of his own nature in a journey which carries him through typical dangers, to reach a center which can never be related directly to the outer tasks or satisfactions of life."