Impending Modernity

The inherent clash between ancient cultures and impending modernity surfaces in so many ways, at so many different points in the novel, it is clear that this conflict is a part of life not just for the characters in the novel but for all peoples in the American Southwest. The most common example is the negotiation that Palmer mediates over, where a resort is proposed to be built on the Grand Canyon. Palmer in particular is very sensitive to both sides of the issue, for instance showing incredible sensitivity and attention to the creation myth that Denny Duke's mother shares with him (180-183).

In an ironic twist, those who were protesting against the building of the resort -- that is, those who want to maintain the ancient purity of the land -- manipulate the modern building of the Tuba City Justice Center to advance their...