Joy Harjo, a renowned poet, author, and musician, hails from Tulsa, Oklahoma, and is a proud member of the Muscogee Creek Nation. Born on this day May 9, 1951, Harjo has dedicated her life to the creative arts, excelling as a prolific writer and performer. Her work is widely celebrated for its powerful portrayal of Native American heritage, spirituality, and the human experience.
As a poet, Joy Harjo’s distinctive style combines vivid imagery with a deep connection to the natural world and her Muscogee heritage. Her poetry often explores themes such as memory, history, and cultural identity, providing insight into the lives and experiences of Native American people. Harjo has published numerous poetry collections, which have garnered critical acclaim and various awards. Notable works include She Had Some Horses, In Mad Love and War, and her most recent collection, An American Sunrise.
In addition to her poetry, Joy Harjo has made significant contributions to other literary genres. She has published several children’s books, essays, and a memoir titled Crazy Brave, which delves into her personal journey as a woman, artist, and member of the Muscogee Creek Nation. Throughout her career, Harjo has received numerous awards and honors for her work. In 2019, she was named the 23rd United States Poet Laureate – the first Native American to hold this prestigious position.
Besides her literary accomplishments, Joy Harjo is also an accomplished musician. She has released multiple albums that showcase her talents as a saxophonist, flutist, and singer. Her music is deeply rooted in her Native American heritage, blending traditional Muscogee elements with contemporary styles such as jazz and rock.
Joy Harjo’s remarkable career as a poet, author, and musician is a testament to her immense talent and dedication to preserving and promoting her Muscogee heritage. Through her work, she has successfully bridged the gap between cultures and brought the unique experiences of Native Americans to the forefront of the literary and artistic worlds. Harjo’s impact on the arts, particularly in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and beyond, will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come.
Don’t Bother the Earth Spirit
“Don’t bother the earth spirit who lives here. She is working on a story. It is the oldest story in the world and it is delicate, changing. If she sees you watching she will invite you in for coffee, give you warm bread, and you will be obligated to stay and listen. But this is no ordinary story. You will have to endure earthquakes, lightning, the deaths of all those you love, the most blinding beauty. It’s a story so compelling you may never want to leave; this is how she traps you. See that stone finger over there? That is the only one who ever escaped.”
-Joy Harjo, from Secrets from the Center of the World (1989)
Curated by Jennifer
