The Invisible Musician

by Ray A. Young Bear

Young Bear draws heavily upon ancient traditions while creating dramatic versions of the harshness of modern tribal life, the Vietnam War, and exploitation of the land. At the same time, images from nature, such as the kingfisher or the eagle, reflect the human condition. Includes original Mesquakie songs translated by the author.

Genres: Poetry

104 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1990

About the author

Ray Young Bear (born 1950 in Marshalltown, Iowa) is a Native American poet and novelist of the Meskwaki tribe. He writes about contemporary Native Americans in English and in the Meskwaki language.

Reviews

[Rodney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't love every line of every poem, but it took me somewhere I've never been in the most surreal and spooky manner. Loved it!

[Patricia N. McLaughlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poems as clear and confusing as visions and dreams, lyrical and prosaic in turns, tympanic like the head of a deer-skin drum