"from Black Elk Speaks: III. The Great Vision" by Neihardt.

From Black Elk Speaks: III. The Great Vision By John G. Neihardt The story is one of a great holy man, Black Elk. At a young age, he falls ill, and is near death when he has a vision involving his ancestors (Grandfathers). He becomes a healer of, not only the individual, but of a whole group. His powers, given to him by his Grandfathers, allowed him to heal those who were sick, give social …

…ghostly, and universal. The small songs that Black Elk recalls are so effective to the point of his vision, and pull the reader into his dream, his vision, and even his memory. The reader, along with Black Elk, is able to travel through the same journey with him, just as though we are there ourselves. This story appears to be an emphasis of the Indian nations staying together, growing strong, and being a unified people.