Many of Silko's stories explore the significance of tradition in modern Native American culture, particularly focusing on the storyteller's role. Read a short story by another contemporary Native American author, such as Paula Gunn Allen, Louise Erdrich, or Sherman Alexie. How does this author address issues similar to or different from those in Silko's work? What part does tradition play in the story compared to Silko's? How do the characters reconcile Native American traditions and history with the realities of contemporary Native American life?

There are hundreds of Native American tribes across North America (including the Navajo, Cherokee, Chippewa, Pueblo, and others), yet many Native Americans feel that mainstream American culture fails to acknowledge the vast diversity among these tribes. Research the history, traditions, and current conditions of a specific Native American tribe. How does this tribe's experience differ from or resemble that of other tribes?

Besides fiction, Silko and other writers from the 1970s Native American literary renaissance also produced poetry collections. Choose a Native American poet and read several of their poems. How do these poems address concerns similar to or different from those in Silko's fiction? How does the poetic form convey ideas in a way that differs from fictional prose?

Investigate contemporary Native American visual arts, such as drawing, painting, jewelry-making, and other crafts. How do these visual forms engage with similar concerns about the role of tradition in modern Native American culture? To what extent do the forms, processes, and uses of this art differ from or resemble traditional Native American culture? What role does art play in contemporary Native American society?

The 1970s, when Silko's short story "Lullaby" was first written, were a pivotal period for Native American struggles with mainstream American culture. Learn more about the political, cultural, and economic challenges faced by Native American tribes from the 1960s to the 1990s. What national Native American organizations are active today? What has changed due to these struggles? What remains unchanged?