The Man to Send Rain Clouds: Contemporary Stories by American Indians

Consider the short story’s title. Who might “the Man to Send Rain Clouds” in question be about? In what way could all the named characters of the story also hold that title?

Make a list of the non-English words used in the short story and look up their definitions. Why might have Silko resisted translating these words? What effect does this have on the reading experience itself?

Track the different uses of color in the story. Why and how does color play an important role in Pueblo customs and tradition?

Compare and contrast the characters of Leon and Father Paul. In what ways are they similar but different? Would they be considered foils of each other? Explain why or why not.

How do different ideas around death emerge in this story? Using the characters of Louise, Leon, and Father Paul, what might Silko be trying to convey regarding individual and community beliefs?

Consider the scene where Father Paul and Leon meet in the church to discuss Teofilo’s burial. How does this scene represent the complicated relationships each individual has with their community and beliefs?

Examine Silko’s descriptions of Teofilo’s physicality, paying close attention to his clothes and what he is dressed in for burial. Why might have Silko focused on such descriptions? What might they symbolize?

How does Silko depict representations of family and community and why? Detail as many examples as you can find.