What is the main "story" of this poem, and how is it rooted in our common experience? What spiritual beliefs are made manifest by the story?

The belief in self-transformation and rebirth is common among Native-American tribes. Tribe members were initiated into adulthood by undertaking "vision quests" in the wilderness to discover their "totem" animal that was thought to guide them through life. What can this transforming rite tell us about the relationship between humans and animals in Native cultures?

Storytelling is essential to Native-American oral traditions. Imagine that this poem plays a significant role in educating Laguna Pueblo children. What do you think the poem is trying to teach? Is there a lesson or even many lessons embedded in the poem?

Poems are meant to be read aloud just as drama is meant to be performed on the stage. Read the...