The Song of Hiawatha

"The Song of Hiawatha" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a poem from the 1800s inspired by North American Indian stories, especially those of the Ojibway people. It tells the story of Hiawatha, a Native American hero whose life is full of nature, love, and struggles. Right from the start, the poem uses beautiful language to paint a picture of the culture it's describing. The narrator, Nawadaha, shares stories he's heard about Hiawatha from the land and nature. We learn about Hiawatha's family, how he was raised by his grandmother Nokomis, and the important lessons he learned about the world. Key events show Hiawatha's special link to nature, his meetings with spirits, and the qualities that make him a hero. The beginning sets up a magical and peaceful mood, promising a trip through the spiritual and real worlds of Native American life.