An American Sunrise

Joy Harjo's An American Sunrise intertwines personal and tribal histories, exploring themes of beauty, survival, and the legacy of displacement.

In An American Sunrise, Joy Harjo, the first Native American Poet Laureate of the United States, draws from her rich tribal history and deep connection to the land. This stunning collection reflects on the forced removal of the Mvskoke people from their ancestral lands in the early 1800s, a journey that led them to what is now Oklahoma. Two centuries later, Harjo returns to these lands, engaging in a poignant dialogue with history and the experiences of her ancestors.

Through her poetry, Harjo explores the blessings found in her homeland, while also confronting the painful legacy of displacement that her people endured. She weaves personal narratives, from her mother’s death to her involvement in the native rights movement, creating a tapestry that intertwines her life with the broader tribal histories. In An American Sunrise, she crafts a space for renewal and hope, where beauty and survival coexist amidst the ruins of injustice.

As a descendant of storytellers, Harjo's voice resonates with a unique blend of spirituality and raw emotion. Her poems illuminate the struggles and triumphs of indigenous communities, echoing the quiet anger and resilience that define their existence. This powerful collection underscores her status as one of the most significant poets of our time, continuing a legacy that enriches the literary world and honors her heritage.