Black Elk Speaks

1.
a. I think that the Black Elk's language reflected his personal opinion. Also, it is not straightforward. For instance, when she wanted to mention a date she would refer to it depending on the situation of the environment during that certain month " moon of the popping trees"(December)"moon of the changing season"(October). He also utilized this method when he referred to historic dates "the Winter When the Four Crows Were killed" (1863)
b. Throughout his writing he also used many similes, which were based on nature "It is like some fearful thing in a fog...". This made it easier to understand the message that he was trying to convey. It also created a sense of imagery.
c. Black elk represented the significance of the different generations through the use of literal features. He said "My father's name was Black Elk, and his father before him bore the name, and the father of his father..."
2.
I think that by saying "the bitten moon" he was referring to the crescent moon. This reiterates the point which was made earlier: he describes everything as he sees it (in literal terms) and this is how they name their things.
3.
a. Imagery: Throughout the text there was a lot of imagery. He is probably so successful at creating such vivid images in our minds because of the way he personally captures the world. As a result, he is able to easily reflect it into words.
b. Throughout his writing, all the words that are used are directly related to the environment. Since their tribe is probably a small one, then it is probably an easier way of keeping track of things especially time. At the same time he might constantly be referring to the environment because it is the most thing that he is constantly surrounded by.
c. Culture is described through language: Different people have different ways of expressing themselves. As a result, this usually reflects upon their character. Black Elk is very literal when describing different things and i think that his choice of words shows how he perceive his native country-beautiful and full of life.
4.
I think that Black Elk's language is much more descriptive than mine. Firstly, I tend to choose simple words that are easily understood by others. Also, I don't think I capable of expressing so many ideas only through a couple of words. I strongly believe that there is the difference between our dialects because of our different backgrounds. Honestly, I think his way of speaking is more beautiful as it captures the significance of his culture and always keeps him close to it. Also, when speaking you feel like he is actually appreciating the meaning of every word, unlike us who abuse words and use them as we like.