How We Became Human: New and Selected Poems 1975-2001

"The power of the victim is a power that will always be reckoned with, one way or the other."-- Joy Harjo, The FloodSome people may find difficulty in understanding Harjo's poetry because it abandons the strict metrics and patterns of European form. If you're looking for greater poetic cultural awareness through the art of words, check out this book with an open mind and a voracious appetite. There were so many takeaways from this book and one that I truly enjoyed exploring.This is a good-read of poetry I highly recommend.

The book arrived promptly. Packaging was minimal (plastic mailer) and the corners of the covers were bent. I find it so frustrating, both that plastic packaging is used and when nothing is inserted to protect the corners of the book. Some sellers use cardboard wraps as the sole packaging. This works perfectly, books always arrive in excellent condition when packaged this way. One other significant thing about this order - the book reeks of perfume. This happens not infrequently. A fragrance free policy for people handling books and other merchandise would be greatly appreciated.

Just amazing poetry on every page, every line. I can feel the indigenous sorrow and still desire foe a return to a world where human beings were a part of the world and not separate. Beautiful and from the heart.

It’s very beautiful and moving poetry, deeply situated in Harjo’s identity as a Native writer. Her imagery is situated in her experience, including creation stories and other aspects of Native American spirituality, and also in the prejudice and oppression that is all too characteristic in our society. But this situated aspect just makes her work more effective and lovely. In addition, Harjo moves fluidly between rural Indian country and urban America and can express and illuminate both worlds. Really stunning work.

I read this in college years ago and it was interesting, all the different poems that covered such a range of topics and themes. I don't remember any that stand out, just a feeling from the whole book. But it was enjoyable overall.

This is a superb anthology of her poems, which are based in her Native American heritage but ring true to any reader. They are honest, gritty and sad but can lift you up as well. Definitely worth adding to your library.

I have always known that Joy Harjo was a national treasure with a voice worth listening to. Now it seems with her new status as our national poet laureate someone else thinks so as well. Also a talented sax muscian.

however there is too many marks in the book