Ancient Voices
The oral tradition in indigenous cultures is well known. Before European arrival, story telling was not just a form of entertainment a la Hollywood but also a method to impart the wisdom that was accumulated in elders' memories. No formal writing system was developed in the west coast pre-Columbian cultures, so they relied on stories to transmit certain kinds of knowledge. Less known is their use of totems to pass on socio-cultural information. Prior to the introduction of writing, the meaning of a totem was understood by people through oral stories, cultural practices, and general communal knowledge.
This second image clarifies the meaning of the pole, which is found in Capilano park, but it must be remembered than in its original pre-literate conception, a totem was understood in a more experiential manner.
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Totems were something very special to those cultures, something that was part of them. That image is great!😃
It was very special for some of the nations in Canada's west coast, but interestingly, the nations in other parts of the country did not have this tradition. It's fascinating stuff!
There's a lot to learn from them! Good night!
That's a beautiful colourful totem, I love it. Where exactly is this park?
Thank you! This is located in Vancouver, BC.
Totems weren’t just decorations, they told stories and passed on wisdom.
They were essential aspects of a few indigenous cultures. Intricate and creative.
Absolutely!