LITERATURA INDÍGENA: "Saberes da floresta", de Márcia Wayna Kambeba

Summary

In this video, the speaker introduces *Saberes da Floresta*, a work by Máxima Cambeba, an Indigenous woman from the Amazon. The book explores themes such as the belief in the forest as a living entity, the significance of Indigenous graphic writing, and the history of Indigenous slavery. The author, who is also a poet, geographer, and photographer, uses various forms of writing—ranging from essays to poetry—to address contemporary Indigenous issues and celebrate the joy of Indigenous existence. The video encourages readers to explore the book through specialized Indigenous bookstores.

Takeaways

• 😀 Máxima Cambeba is an Indigenous author from the Umaúma people of Pará and Amazonas, known for her multi-disciplinary work.
• 😀 The book *Saberes da Floresta* (Knowledges of the Forest) combines poetry, historical records, and academic essays, reflecting Cambeba’s diverse expertise.
• 😀 Cambeba is the first Indigenous woman to occupy the position of ombudsman in Belém, highlighting her significant role in leadership.
• 😀 One of the central themes of the book is the belief that the forest is alive, with humans and non-humans communicating through voices and shared experiences.
• 😀 Cambeba emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of human beings, trees, rivers, animals, and the natural world.
• 😀 The book defends Indigenous graphic writing as a valid and essential form of communication, distinct from alphabetic writing systems.
• 😀 Indigenous graphic writing, as explored in the book, is used for marking key life events such as birth, marriage, and death.
• 😀 The body of Indigenous people is described as a canvas, where knowledge and communication are inscribed through graphic forms.
• 😀 The book addresses the history of Indigenous slavery, which is often overlooked in mainstream discourse, and seeks to preserve this painful chapter.
• 😀 Cambeba’s work not only explores historical injustices but also celebrates the joy, pride, and resilience of being Indigenous in the contemporary world.
• 😀 *Saberes da Floresta* is available for purchase through Editora Jandaíra and the Maracá bookstore, both of which specialize in Indigenous literature.

Q & A

Who is the author of the book 'Saberes da Floresta' and what are some of her roles?

The author of 'Saberes da Floresta' is Máxima Cambeba, an Indigenous writer, poet, geographer, and photographer. She also became the first Indigenous woman to occupy the role of Ombudsperson in the City Hall of Belém, Pará, in 2021.

What is the main theme of the book 'Saberes da Floresta'?

The main theme of the book is the Indigenous understanding of the forest as a living entity, with the knowledge and voices of the forest being crucial to the Indigenous peoples' way of life and connection with nature.

How does Máxima Cambeba portray the relationship between humans and nature in her book?

She emphasizes a deep connection between humans and non-humans (such as animals and trees). The forest is seen as alive, and the elements of nature, like animals, trees, and rivers, communicate with humans, showcasing an ancestral relationship.

What does the poem 'Vozes da Floresta' convey about the forest and its inhabitants?

'Vozes da Floresta' highlights the dynamic and vibrant life of the forest, with animals and natural elements interacting with the environment and humans. The poem underscores the idea of a living, breathing forest that speaks through the sounds of animals and the weather.

What is the significance of the term 'grafismo' in the context of the book?

Grafismo refers to the ancient visual communication systems used by Indigenous peoples, which go beyond the alphabetic writing system. It includes signs and symbols on various media like the body, textiles, and ceramics, and it plays a key role in transmitting knowledge within the community.

How does the book challenge the traditional view of written communication?

The book challenges the dominance of alphabetic writing by highlighting that Indigenous graphic communication systems, or 'grafismo,' are equally valid and meaningful ways of recording and transmitting knowledge, opposing the idea that alphabetic writing is the only legitimate form of communication.

Why is it important to recognize Indigenous grafismo as a form of writing?

Recognizing grafismo as a legitimate form of writing is important because it affirms Indigenous cultures and their ways of communication, which have been marginalized or misunderstood by non-Indigenous societies. This acknowledgment fosters respect for alternative knowledge systems.

What historical issue does the book address regarding Indigenous peoples?

The book addresses the issue of Indigenous slavery, a largely overlooked aspect of history. It seeks to preserve the memory of the atrocities committed against Indigenous peoples during this period, which is often neglected in mainstream historical narratives.

What other topics related to Indigenous peoples are explored in 'Saberes da Floresta'?

In addition to Indigenous slavery, the book explores topics such as the current urban Indigenous experience, Indigenous rights, and the joy of being Indigenous in the present day.

Where can readers purchase 'Saberes da Floresta'?

Readers can purchase 'Saberes da Floresta' directly from the Jandaíra Publishing House or from Maracá Bookstore, which specializes in Indigenous literature.