N. Scott Momaday's "The Way to Rainy Mountain" is a beautifully written and evocative work that explores the history and culture of the Kiowa people through the lens of Momaday's own personal experiences and memories. Through a series of interconnected stories and reflections, Momaday takes the reader on a journey through time and space, from the present day to the distant past, and from the bustling city to the quiet, sacred landscape of Rainy Mountain.
At its heart, "The Way to Rainy Mountain" is a meditation on the relationship between people and place, and the ways in which our sense of identity is shaped by our connection to the land. Throughout the book, Momaday weaves together stories, myths, and personal memories to create a rich tapestry of Kiowa history and culture, highlighting the enduring significance of the land and the natural world to the Kiowa people.
One of the central themes of the book is the importance of storytelling and oral tradition in preserving the cultural heritage of the Kiowa people. Momaday draws on his own experiences listening to the stories of his grandfather and other elders, and reflects on the ways in which these stories shape the identity and worldview of the Kiowa people. Through these stories, Momaday is able to connect with his ancestors and the ancient traditions of his people, and to better understand the history and culture of the Kiowa people.
Another key theme of the book is the relationship between the past and the present, and the ways in which the memories and experiences of the past continue to shape and influence the present. Momaday reflects on the history of the Kiowa people, from their origins in the ancient past to their forced relocation to a reservation in the late 19th century, and the ways in which these events have shaped the contemporary Kiowa experience. By weaving together stories from different time periods and contexts, Momaday highlights the ongoing relevance of the past to the present, and the ways in which our understanding of the world is shaped by the stories and experiences of those who came before us.
Overall, "The Way to Rainy Mountain" is a powerful and moving work that offers a unique perspective on the history and culture of the Kiowa people. Through its blend of personal stories, myths, and historical reflections, the book offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the ways in which our sense of identity is shaped by our connection to place, and the enduring power of storytelling and oral tradition in preserving cultural heritage.
Ongka's Big Moka is a film that explores the traditional practices of the Kewa people, a tribe located in the Western Province of Papua New Guinea. The film follows the story of Ongka, a Kewa leader who is determined to organize a "moka," a traditional exchange of gifts and feasts that is meant to establish relationships and bring prosperity to the community.
Throughout the film, we see Ongka working tirelessly to gather the resources needed for the moka, including pigs, shells, and other valuables. He also has to deal with the challenges of modernity, such as competing with Western consumer goods and the difficulties of navigating a cash economy.
One of the most striking aspects of Ongka's Big Moka is the way it illustrates the deep cultural significance of the moka to the Kewa people. For them, the moka is not just a social event or a way to exchange goods, but a deeply spiritual and meaningful tradition that is integral to their identity and way of life.
Another compelling aspect of the film is the way it portrays the conflict between traditional and modern values. Ongka is faced with the difficult decision of whether to stick to traditional Kewa practices or to adopt more modern ways of doing things. The film does not offer easy answers to these questions, but rather invites viewers to consider the complexities and trade-offs involved in negotiating between tradition and modernity.
Overall, Ongka's Big Moka is a thought-provoking and illuminating film that provides a unique window into the culture and traditions of the Kewa people. Through its portrayal of Ongka's efforts to organize a moka, the film offers a nuanced and nuanced portrayal of the challenges and rewards of maintaining traditional ways of life in a rapidly changing world.