Most of the figures and characters within these essays are women. Explain the dearth of male characters and how this affects Silko’s text.

In her critique of the Border Patrol, Silko says that the freedom to travel is an integral aspect of American identity. What does she mean by this? Do you agree? Why or why not?

Silko refers to herself—and indeed all humans—as conflicted. Is Silko herself conflicted? Do you believe her suggestion that humans are, by their essence, conflicted? Why or why not?