1. Native American Heritage:
- As a member of the Kiowa tribe, Momaday's connection to his Native American heritage significantly shapes his identity. He incorporates traditional stories, beliefs, and cultural practices into his writings.
2. Oral Traditions and Storytelling:
- Drawing from the rich oral tradition of his people, Momaday values the power of storytelling as a means of passing down cultural knowledge and maintaining cultural identity.
3. Landscape and Nature:
- The landscapes of the Native American Southwest, particularly the plains of Oklahoma and the mountains of New Mexico, play a pivotal role in Momaday's sense of identity. He experiences a profound connection to the land and incorporates its imagery, beauty, and symbolism into his literary works.
4. History and Cultural Memory:
- Momaday engages deeply with the history and collective memory of his tribe. He investigates the traumas of displacement and loss experienced by Native Americans while finding moments of resilience and continuity in their cultural practices.
5. Symbolism and Mythology:
- Throughout his writing, Momaday incorporates symbolism and mythology drawn from Native American traditions to convey profound themes and explore concepts of identity, spirituality, and the relationship between the individual and the natural world.
6. Personal Experiences:
- Momaday's own experiences and life journey, including his upbringing in a blended Native American and European-American family, influence his personal sense of identity and inform his creative expression.
7. Cultural Exchange:
- Momaday's writings also reflect a fascination with cultural exchange and the interactions between different cultures, showcasing his ability to bridge Native American and mainstream American experiences.