Ancestral Voice: Conversations With N. Scott Momaday

by Charles L. Woodard

Six conversations between Woodard and author/artist N. Scott Momaday paralleling the progression of the artist's life

Genres: Native American

229 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1991

Reviews

[Sherri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like eavesdropping on a fascinating conversation, the interview between Woodward and Momaday covers a multitude of topics. The obvious ones, of art, what it is and how it is created, the differences between writing and painting are discussed. History and indigenous identity, one of Momaday's constant themes, comes up and a little more light is shed on his views. However my favorite section was their talk about humor. Momaday is a funny guy, a little on the dry depreciating side but a funny guy and doesn't get enough credit for this since he is the serious elder statesman of indigenous literature and a Pulitzer winner. Although I don't necessarily agree with his theory that native people on this continent came from Asia I concur with most of his ideas and his observations are detailed and full of wonder, even about the smallest things. Woodward also examines some of Momaday's poetry and several of his paintings are featured inside the book as well. I'd recommend this for a lit class that covers any of Momaday's works or anyone intrigued by how an artist works and thinks.