Toelken, Barre, authorUtah State University Press, publisher2007-01-032007-01-032014http://hdl.handle.net/10217/88168Includes bibliographical references.Current Arguments in Folklore editionTo many Native American cultures, songs and stories are dramatic enactments of reality. To some words bring reality into existence. In this chapter from his award-winning The Anguish of Snails, Toelken thoughtfully approaches a number of stories from Native American traditions. He discusses how narratives can be touchstones of shared values among closely associated traditional people and how songs and stories go far beyond an evening's entertainment or "lessons" about life. A traditional narrative can be a culturally structured way of thinking and of experiencing the patterns that make culture real.born digitalbooksengCopyright and other restrictions may apply. User is responsible for compliance with all applicable laws. For information about copyright law, please see https://libguides.colostate.edu/copyright.All rights reserved. User is responsible for compliance. Please contact University Press of Colorado at https://upcolorado.com/our-books/rights-and-permissions for use information.Indians of North America -- West (U.S.) -- FolkloreFolklore -- Performance -- West (U.S.)Oral tradition -- West (U.S.)Folklore -- MethodologyFolklore -- United States.TextAccess is limited to the Adams State University, Colorado State University, Colorado State University Pueblo, Community College of Denver, Fort Lewis College, Metropolitan State University Denver, Regis University, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, University of Colorado Denver, University of Denver, University of Northern Colorado, University of Wyoming, Utah State University and Western Colorado University communities only.