Originally published in 1987, the aim of this book is to advance a fresh perspective on the presentation, philology, analysis, and interpretation of oral literature and verbal art. Developed through commentaries and analysis of a range of texts from Native American communities, past and present, this original approach is centered on discourse, which the contributors take as being the richest point of intersection among language, culture, society, and individual expression. In discourse, individuals draw on their own artistry at the same time as they draw on the special and unique resources of the language and culture of their communities.