Joy Harjo Poem

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Joy Harjo Poetry is an awesome and beautiful way for many people to express their feelings. There are many types of poetry and some convey deep thoughts, while some others are more lighthearted. Native American poetry reflects the feelings, the emotions, and the warmth of the poet but also, the way of life of the Native American tribes, and what they felt and dealt with during the fight for their land and way of life. Joy Harjo is one of the best known Native American poets and according to her words “The literature of the aboriginal people of North America defines America. It is not exotic. The concerns are particular, yet often universal.” "Native American Poetry and Culture." poetryfoundation.com. Poetry Foundation, 21 Mar. 2013. Web.) …show more content…
Her original last name was Foster, but in 1970 she changed it to Harjo because of her aunt, Lois Harjo, which was the one that taught her about her Indian heritage. In my opinion, this move, which by the way was approved by her parents, helped her to make a strong bond between her publicity and her heritage. Joy is primarily known as a poet, but she is also an academic and a musician, she plays the saxophone with her band “Poetic Justice” and has released many award winning CD’s ("Joy Harjo." 123helpme.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Nov. …show more content…
For many years, she supported her two kids by working in many different jobs like dance teacher, hospital janitor, waitress, and many more. After this variety of jobs, she decided to go back to the university and she earned her Bachelor degree in English from the University of New Mexico and then, she earned her Master in Fine Arts from the University of Iowa giving her the chance to have an amazing list of teaching positions in universities such as ASU and University of California ("Joy Harjo." 123helpme.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Nov. 2015.). She has also received many awards for her poetry such as the Lifetime Achievement Award, the Josephine Miles poetry award, The American Indian distinguished achievement in Arts Award, and many more ("Joy Harjo." Poetry Foundation. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Nov.

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