Beading

Beading symbolizes creation and the creative powers of women, specifically. This is seen in the actions of the creation twins, Mary and Zosie, and Rozin. It is a way for them to manifest the world they desire to live in and to create something lasting. This beadwork shows that creation is an ongoing act and that each individual bead, or person, is vital in coming together and creating something new.

Antelope woman

The existence of antelope and deer women in the novel symbolizes a rejection of mainstream western society and a deep connection with nature. These women do not live within social boundaries and are entirely different from anything seen in ‘civilized’ society. They have a strong sense of place, landscape, and community and contain many species-fluid characteristics that set them apart.

Blue beads

The blue beads symbolize the intergenerational connections throughout the novel. Their unique...