Linda G. Johnson’s "Oh Redman," a poignant and evocative piece, serves as a lament and a tribute to the plight and resilience of Native Americans. Written in 2005, the poem, under the keyword Oh Redman, encapsulates the historical injustices, spiritual connection to the land, and unwavering bravery that define the Native American experience. This article delves into the layers of meaning within the poem, exploring its themes, symbolism, and historical context to provide a deeper understanding of its enduring message.
The poem opens with a direct address, "To My Beloved People and All Native Americans," immediately establishing a sense of community and shared identity. This dedication sets the stage for a narrative that speaks to the heart of Native American identity, history, and struggle.
The initial verses paint a vivid picture of the "Redman," a figure of strength and dignity:
Oh Redman tall and proud,
watch him take his stand.
To protect his humble people,
and their mighty sacred land.
This portrayal emphasizes the Native American man’s role as a protector, a guardian of his people and their ancestral lands. The phrase "mighty sacred land" underscores the profound spiritual connection that Native Americans have with the earth, a connection that is central to their culture and way of life. The adjective "mighty" emphasizes the vastness and importance of the land, while "sacred" highlights its spiritual significance, suggesting a deep reverence and respect for the natural world.
The subsequent lines further illustrate the Native American’s intimate relationship with the land:
O’re the Mother Earth he’ll roam,
this is where he makes his home.
Summers, Winters he will go,
Deserts, mountains, and forests below.
This stanza depicts a life lived in harmony with nature, moving with the seasons and traversing diverse landscapes. The term "Mother Earth" personifies the land, imbuing it with a nurturing and life-giving quality. This personification reflects the Native American worldview, where the earth is not merely a resource to be exploited but a living entity to be respected and cherished. The imagery of "summers, winters," and diverse landscapes ("deserts, mountains, and forests") highlights the adaptability and resilience of Native Americans in the face of varying environmental conditions.
The poem then transitions to the practical aspects of survival:
Hunting only for the need,
Takes no more takes no less.
For his people he must feed,
To show his bravery to past the test.
Here, the emphasis is on sustainability and respect for resources. The "Redman" hunts only for sustenance, taking only what is necessary to feed his people. This reflects a deep understanding of ecological balance and a commitment to living in harmony with nature. The phrase "takes no more takes no less" underscores the principle of moderation and the avoidance of waste. This is also a test of bravery, the act of hunting for survival.
A plea to the divine follows:
Oh Great Spirt hear my plea,
protect my people watch over me.
This verse introduces the element of spirituality and faith. The "Great Spirit" is invoked as a protector and guide, reflecting the Native American belief in a higher power that watches over them. This plea for protection highlights the vulnerability of the Native American people in the face of external threats. The use of the word "plea" conveys a sense of desperation and urgency.
The poem then shifts to the central conflict:
The Whiteman comes we must fight,
To protect our lands with all might
Our women scream, our childern cry,
and on this day we all must die.
This stanza marks the arrival of the "Whiteman" and the ensuing conflict over land and resources. The use of the term "Whiteman" represents the colonizers and their encroachment on Native American territories. The phrase "we must fight" underscores the determination of Native Americans to defend their lands and way of life. The imagery of "women scream, our childern cry" evokes the suffering and trauma inflicted upon Native American communities by colonization. The line "and on this day we all must die" foreshadows the tragic consequences of the conflict and the potential for annihilation.
The poem concludes with a stark and poignant image:
Now we walk with our fears,
down the sad, Trail Of Tears!
This final couplet refers to the forced removal of Native Americans from their ancestral lands, a tragic event known as the Trail of Tears. The phrase "walk with our fears" conveys the sense of dread and uncertainty that accompanied this forced displacement. The term "Trail of Tears" is a powerful symbol of the suffering and loss endured by Native Americans during this period. The adjective "sad" reinforces the emotional impact of this historical event. The keyword Oh Redman‘s story is one of bravery and sadness.
The poem’s strength lies in its simplicity and directness. Johnson uses plain language to convey complex emotions and historical realities. The repetition of key phrases and images, such as "mighty sacred land" and "protect my people," reinforces the poem’s central themes. The use of rhyme and rhythm creates a sense of musicality and enhances the poem’s emotional impact.
"Oh Redman" is more than just a poem; it is a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of Native Americans. It serves as a reminder of the historical injustices they have faced and the importance of preserving their culture and traditions. The poem’s themes of land, spirituality, and resistance continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.
The historical context of the poem is crucial to understanding its significance. The Trail of Tears, mentioned explicitly in the final lines, refers to the forced removal of thousands of Cherokee, Creek, Seminole, Chickasaw, and Choctaw people from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to lands west of the Mississippi River during the 1830s. This forced relocation resulted in immense suffering, death, and the loss of cultural heritage.
Johnson’s poem, titled Oh Redman, can be interpreted as a lament for this lost world and a call for remembrance and reconciliation. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring the treaties made with Native American tribes and respecting their sovereignty.
In conclusion, "Oh Redman" is a powerful and moving poem that captures the essence of the Native American experience. It is a testament to their resilience, their spiritual connection to the land, and their unwavering determination to protect their culture and way of life. The poem’s themes of land, spirituality, resistance, and historical injustice continue to resonate with contemporary audiences, making it a valuable contribution to the understanding and appreciation of Native American history and culture. The keyword Oh Redman and it’s message remain relevant today. The keyword Oh Redman continues to stand as a reminder.