An early glimpse of Indigenous wisdom
Continuing with books from childhood, I recently re-read “Son of Raven, Son of Deer”: a 1967 collection of indigenous fables by the late Indigenous (Tseshaht First Nation) author and artist George Clutesi.
My grandmother gave me this (autographed) book for my eighth birthday. At the time, I must admit, I was a little bored by it. In his introduction, the author explains that the fables in this book are unlike the more dramatic, flashier, and often scarier European fairy tales many children grow up with. Instead, these tales have fairly low-key plots and feature animals in nature as the main protagonists. The raven is greedy, the deer is clever, and the stories always gently convey a lesson or value as they unfold. This includes how the features of various animals came to be. The illustrations are black and white, in a simple pen and ink style, which, again, as a child felt a little dull.
Yet this book has remained in my collection for over 50 years. And I think it’s because, despite the lack of flash, the stories offered me a glimpse into another culture and ways of being. These ways seemed mysterious, but also very grounded and wise. My eight-year-old self was not drawn to the details of the book, but it left an enduring impression nevertheless.
That said, it’s only been in the last couple of years that I’ve been more keenly drawn to gifts and wisdom of Indigenous cultures, as well as the challenges Indigenous people have endured, and continue to face.
In the book’s introduction, George Clutesi uses the term "Indian" when describing his people and culture. It was a little disconcerting to see this term used repeatedly, given how terminology has evolved over time. After 50 years, accepted terms now feel more respectful and reflective of a status as first peoples. I’m also heartened to see increasing education about Indigenous peoples and cultures by Indigenous educators, authors, ambassadors, artists, etc. George Clutesi feels like a pioneer in this work and I hope the teaching and learning continues.
