"The Way to Rainy Mountain" by N. Scott Momaday is a profound work that weaves together history, culture, and personal narrative in a unique and evocative way. Here is an analysis of some of its aspects:

 

1. Narrative Structure

 

- The book is structured in a tripartite form, consisting of the “The Setting Out,” “The Going On,” and “The Closing In.” This structure mirrors the historical journey of the Kiowa people, from their origins in the Montana region, their migration southward, and their eventual confinement to a reservation. Momaday uses a combination of personal memoir, historical accounts, and Kiowa oral traditions. The interspersion of these elements creates a rich tapestry of storytelling that gives the reader a multi-faceted view of the Kiowa experience.

 

- For example, he begins with his own memory of traveling to Rainy Mountain with his grandmother's ashes, which serves as a personal connection to the larger Kiowa story. Then, he delves into historical facts about the Kiowa's migration and encounters with other tribes and the United States government.

 

2. Use of Oral Tradition

 

- Momaday incorporates numerous Kiowa myths, legends, and stories into the narrative. These oral traditions are not only a means of preserving the Kiowa culture but also add a layer of depth and spirituality to the work. The stories are often told in a simple yet powerful way, such as the story of the Kiowa's emergence from the earth, which symbolizes their connection to the land.

 

- By presenting these oral traditions, Momaday emphasizes the importance of passing down cultural knowledge from one generation to the next. He also shows how these stories shape the Kiowa worldview and identity.

 

3. Imagery and Symbolism

 

- The landscape is a prominent symbol throughout the book. Rainy Mountain itself is a powerful symbol of the Kiowa's spiritual and cultural homeland. The description of the land, with its mesas, prairies, and the changing seasons, reflects the Kiowa's deep relationship with nature. For instance, the mention of the buffalo, which was central to the Kiowa's way of life, symbolizes their abundance and connection to the natural world.

 

- The use of imagery is also vivid, such as the description of the Kiowa warriors in battle, or the beauty of the prairie at sunset. These images help the reader to visualize the events and emotions described in the book, and they also contribute to the overall sense of the Kiowa's history and culture.

 

4. Themes of Identity and Loss

 

- One of the central themes of the book is the Kiowa's struggle to maintain their identity in the face of cultural and historical changes. The loss of their traditional way of life, such as the buffalo hunts and their nomadic existence, is a source of great sadness and nostalgia for Momaday. He also explores the loss of his own grandmother, who was a link to the Kiowa's past.