Yaku, the Water Spirit
Film
Student 2020
Writing Contest Winners
Questions
“How did he choke you? How did he break your wrist? Did you try calling anyone? When did he start getting violent? Why don’t you move?”
Quercus
“With words about savages, standing too long in the sun to know what’s good for them. My mother stands strong. I raise myself higher, in proud nickel likeness.”
Little Peculiarities
“A low rumble sounds gradually then all at once the train rounds the corner toward the road. Wind rushes across my face as it tears past. In its wake, the penny spins from the rail, flattened smooth.”
Long Road Home
“A man walked into an El Paso Wal-Mart, training his aim on families gearing up for back-to-school. Mothers were armed with carts with new backpacks, markers, glue, and notebooks.”
Gimaamaaminaan Aki (Mother Earth)
“In the beginning, she gifted us life-giving waters. Swelling from underneath, she gave birth to the water panthers and horned serpents.”
Fyre
“It started off as little specks of smoke and eventually turned into a single fire all in one. As I reached the ground, I went as fast as I could in the opposite direction of the flames.”
The Dream
“She felt breathing in her ear and knew there must be someone behind her. The whispers got louder as she got closer to the door.”
Trapped
Throat by Leandra Chimal of the Institute of American Indian Arts
“‘Run!’ Kyle screamed at me, took my hand, and pulled me down the hallway. He pushed me into a room and covered my mouth. Whatever was after us ran past the room.”
Old Dogs of Taos
“Old dogs of Taos, dream off wounds – together they sleep in shade under clouds, dozing off sunshine in the long shadow of the old earth house.”