As Brian Swann demonstrated in Coming to Light, his compilation of Native American literature, the indigenous peoples of North America have a rich and vibrant oral tradition. With Wearing the Morning Star, Brian Swann presents a new collection of Native American songs that further celebrates this tradition. These are songs of the earth and the sky, songs of mourning and of love, parts of ceremonies and rites and rituals.

Some have themes that are very familiar; others illuminate the complexities and differences of the native cultures. There are songs of derision and threat, ribald songs, hunting chants, and a song sung by an Inuit about the first airplane he ever saw.

1. Brian Swann has provided an authoritative introduction and notes for each selection that combine to place the songs in their cultural contexts. He has reworked the original translations where appropriate to allow the modern reader to appreciate and enjoy these remarkable works.