Trudell's poetry and philosophy

Poet, activist shares his unique slant

Trudell was among Alcatraz occupiersDuring his presentation, Trudell shared his personal philosophy and some of his original poetry.

"I flew with the eagles until I fell from the nest. I ran with the wolves until I got lost from the pack," he read from one poem. "I never strayed to Heaven--it was hard getting past hell."

In another, he spoke of a "yellow ribbon around my brain."

Trudell didn't apologize for the lack of sunshine and light in his words as he described a government and society he said mines the humanness from individuals and leaves behind the toxic waste of fear, doubt and insecurity.

"We're chasing chaos," he said.

The way out, he said, is not violence.

"I think it's useless to fight them," he said. "I encourage everyone to think clearly and coherently and outthink them."Comment:  In contrast to other Native poetry, Trudell's poetry seems clear.