1. The 1970s, the period when Silko's short story "Lullaby" was first penned, marked a pivotal era in the history of Native American interactions with mainstream American society. Delve into the political, cultural, and economic challenges faced by Native American tribes from the 1960s to the 1990s. Which national organizations representing Native Americans are currently active? What transformations have occurred due to these struggles? What aspects remain unchanged?

2. Many of Silko's narratives explore the significance of tradition in modern Native American culture, especially the role of the storyteller. Read a short story by another contemporary Native American author, such as Paula Gunn Allen, Louise Erdrich, or Sherman Alexie. How does this writer tackle similar or different issues within Native American culture? What importance does tradition hold in their story compared to Silko's work? How do the characters in the story balance Native American traditions and history with the realities of contemporary Native American life?