– Long-tailed Native American stories
– N Scott Momaday, Pulitzer-winning giant.
Renowned Native American Author N. Scott Momaday Dies at 87
Momaday, the celebrated Native American author and poet, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 87. He breathed his last at his residence in Santa Fe, New Mexico, following a period of declining health, according to a statement released by his publisher, HarperCollins.
Remembered as an extraordinary person and a literary genius, Momaday made a significant impact on American literature with his unique voice. Jennifer Civiletto, Momaday’s editor, expressed her admiration for the late author, stating, “It was an honor and a privilege to work with him. His Kiowa heritage was deeply meaningful to him, and he dedicated a substantial part of his life to celebrating and preserving Native American culture, particularly the oral tradition.”
A Literary Journey Spanning Worlds
One of Momaday’s most renowned works is his 1968 novel, House Made Of Dawn, which tells the story of a Second World War soldier’s struggle to reintegrate into his Native community in rural New Mexico. Inspired by his own upbringing in Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico, the novel delves into the conflicts Momaday faced between his ancestral roots and the opportunities and challenges of the outside world.
During the time of its publication, novels by American Indians were not widely recognized. However, Momaday defied these notions, and House Made Of Dawn garnered critical acclaim. The New York Times praised the book, asserting that Momaday’s work was exceptional and stood on its own merit.
A Trailblazer and an Inspiration
Momaday’s novel not only resonated with readers but also influenced a generation of authors. In 1969, he became the first Native American to win the fiction Pulitzer Prize, paving the way for other Native American writers such as Leslie Marmon Silko, James Welch, and Louise Erdrich. His talent and vision garnered the admiration of notable figures such as poet Joy Harjo, the first Native American poet laureate, as well as actors Robert Redford and Jeff Bridges.
In addition to his literary achievements, Momaday’s career included teaching positions at prestigious institutions like Stanford, Princeton, and Columbia universities. He also served as a commentator for NPR and delivered lectures worldwide, sharing his profound insights on Native American culture.
A Passion for Preserving Native Life
Through his writings, Momaday championed the beauty and significance of traditional Native life. Drawing from the stories passed down by his parents and grandparents, he considered oral culture as the foundation of language and storytelling. Momaday’s perspective extended beyond the arrival of English settlers, recognizing the ancient roots of American culture, as seen in the rock art at Utah’s Barrier Canyon.
In recognition of his contributions, President George W. Bush awarded Momaday the National Medal of Arts in 2007. The honor celebrated his writings and efforts in preserving Native American art and oral tradition. Momaday’s accolades also included an Academy of American Poets prize and the Dayton Literary Peace Prize.
A Life and Legacy
Born Navarre Scott Mammedaty in Lawton, Oklahoma, Momaday was a proud member of the Kiowa Nation. His mother was a writer, while his father pursued art. After spending his teenage years in New Mexico, he studied political science at the University of Mexico and earned a master’s and a PhD in English from Stanford University.
Momaday began his career as a poet, his preferred mode of expression. The publication of House Made Of Dawn came about serendipitously when Fran McCullough, an editor at HarperCollins, invited him to submit a book of poems. Although he did not have enough material for a poetry collection, Momaday shared the first chapter of his novel instead.
Reflecting on his impact as a writer, Momaday humbly acknowledged the influence he had on fellow authors. He expressed his gratitude for being recognized but remained modest, stating, “I think I have been an influence. It’s not something I take a lot of credit for.”
Momaday’s legacy lives on through his profound literary contributions, shedding light on the beauty and significance of Native American culture and heritage.
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– N Scott Momaday, Pulitzer-winning giant of Native American stories, dies at 89
– N Scott Momaday, renowned Native American author, passes away at 89.
