An Introduction to Simon J. Ortiz
Simon J. Ortiz writes poetry and prose that is
at once honest and unfettered, and yet challenging. Using the simplest of language,
Ortiz evokes the most complex feelings, and often a longing for the experiences about
which he writes. In much of his work he maintains a simple tone that belies the
adversity of his life. What Ortiz writes is important because he is teaching the art
of experience, and doing it through language. Not suprisingly, he believes language
is an important vehicle for finding and knowing who we are and professes a strong belief
in the power of the oral traditions of his people. Although his words often seem
innocent, the observations he makes could only come from one who has known the harshness
of reality. That he manages such a firm belief in the power of experience and
spirituality in the face of difficulty, is something well worth learning, a lesson that
Ortiz, as well as Native Americans have to teach.
