Author
E. Pauline Johnson
1861-1913
E. Pauline Johnson (1861-1913) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by E. Pauline Johnson
The Moccasin Maker
"The Moccasin Maker" by E. Pauline Johnson is a collection of prose works published in the early 20th century. It highlights the experiences and reflections of the author, who was of Mohawk descent, and explores themes of identity, heritage, and the intersection of Indigenous and settler cultures in Canada. The main narrative follows the life of Lydia Bestman, an English girl who navigates a challenging upbringing and ultimately marries George Mansion, a Mohawk Indian chief, as they embrace both their cultures. At the start of the collection, the introductory remarks set the stage for Johnson’s exploration of her mother’s life experiences, filled with both hardship and resilience. The opening chapter depicts young Lydia’s poignant feelings as she departs from England, leaving behind her early home and family dynamics shaped by severity. This backstory lays the groundwork for her journey into the New World, where she encounters George, whose character exemplifies a blend of Indigenous nobility and the struggles against colonial challenges. As the narrative unfolds, readers are introduced to the relationships and dynamics that define Lydia’s life as she reconciles her English heritage with her deepening connection to Indigenous identity through marriage and motherhood.
Flint and Feather: Collected Verse
"Flint and Feather: Collected Verse" by E. Pauline Johnson is a collection of poetry likely crafted during the late 19th to early 20th century. This compilation showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Johnson's experiences as a mixed-blood Mohawk and the themes surrounding Indigenous identity, love, nature, and the struggle for recognition. The poems within reflect her deep connection to the land of Canada and its peoples, echoing the resilience and beauty of her heritage. At the start of the volume, Johnson begins by acknowledging the book to the Duke of Connaught, the Head Chief of the Six Nations Indians, emphasizing her pride in her cultural background. The introduction features a heartfelt In Memoriam by Theodore Watts-Dunton, who reminisces about his encounters with Johnson and praises her genuine spirit and immense talent, underscoring the admiration she commanded within literary circles. The Author's Foreword reveals her intention behind the title "Flint and Feather," symbolizing the duality of her identity — the flint representing her fierce Mohawk ancestry and the feather embodying the lyrical essence of her poetic voice. The opening portion also hints at her autobiographical elements and portrays the natural beauty and challenges faced by Indigenous people, establishing a poignant groundwork for the themes explored in her subsequent verses.
Legends of Vancouver
"Legends of Vancouver" by E. Pauline Johnson is a collection of Indigenous legends and tales drawn from the oral traditions of the Coast Salish peoples, written during the late 19th century. The book presents a blend of semi-historical narratives and romantic elements, allowing readers to see the natural beauty of Vancouver and its surroundings through the lens of these enchanting stories. The narratives pay homage to characters such as Chief Joe Capilano, who shared these legends, and reflect the deep cultural roots and beliefs of the Indigenous communities of the region. The opening of the book includes prefaces from both the publisher and the author, expressing the significance of the legends and the role of Chief Joe Capilano in sharing them. Johnson introduces her connection with the Chief as integral to her collection, sharing that these tales were passed on to her in a personal manner. The introductory chapters begin to weave the tales of local landmarks, detailing the legends of "The Lions of Vancouver" and "Siwash Rock," among others. These stories establish a sense of place, linking the mountains, rivers, and cultural identity of the First Nations peoples with their landscapes, highlighting themes of beauty, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the community.
The Shagganappi
"The Shagganappi" by E. Pauline Johnson is a fictional narrative that likely captures the late 19th-century experience of Indigenous peoples in North America, intertwining themes of identity, heritage, and resilience. The novel centers around Fire-Flint Larocque, a half-Cree boy who navigates the complexities of his mixed heritage and finds a sense of belonging among peers at an Eastern college. The narrative reflects on the struggles between Indigenous and colonial cultures and highlights the importance of recognizing one’s roots and the valor of the Indigenous spirit. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Fire-Flint Larocque, who grapples with his identity as a "half-breed." His first pivotal moment comes during an encounter with the Governor-General of Canada, where he learns to embrace his unique heritage. The opening chapters establish the contrasting worlds that Fire-Flint inhabits—his Indigenous background and the academic setting of the college. Throughout the narrative, he will possibly confront prejudice from his peers, yet he is also shown moments of acceptance, such as through a budding friendship with Hal Bennington, a kind-hearted boy from wealth. This rich backdrop sets the stage for a compelling exploration of personal and collective identity within the complexities of racial and cultural dynamics.
The White Wampum
"The White Wampum" by E. Pauline Johnson is a collection of poems written in the late 19th century. The work reflects the rich heritage and traditions of Indigenous people, particularly the Iroquois and Mohawk tribes, as it explores themes of love, identity, and the impact of colonization on Native life. Johnson, who was of mixed heritage, uses her poetry to convey both the beauty and the struggles of her cultural background. In this collection, Johnson crafts vivid imagery and emotional depth as she delves into various subjects, from the relationship between Indigenous people and nature to the conflicts arising from colonialism. The poems feature powerful figures such as warriors, lovers, and mothers, each expressing their joys, sorrows, and a longing for peace and understanding amidst the turbulence of their times. Johnson’s voice emerges as a bridge between cultures, celebrating her Indigenous roots while highlighting the profound challenges faced by her community, ultimately calling for empathy and recognition of their struggles.