Mo'olelo

An essential contribution to contemporary Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) scholarship, Moolelo: The Foundation of Hawaiian Knowledge elevates our understanding of the importance of language and narrative to cultural revitalization. Moolelo preserve the words, phrases, sentences, idioms, proverbs, and poetry that define Knaka Maoli. Encompassing narratives, literature, histories, and traditions, moolelo are intimately entwined with cultural identity, reciprocal relationships, and the valuing of place, collectively informing and enriching all Hawaiian life. The contributors, all Kanaka Maoli scholars, artists, and advocates from across the Pae ina o Hawaii (Hawaiian archipelago), all fluent in lelo Hawaii (Hawaiian language), describe how moolelo constantly inform their linguistic, literary, translation, rhetorical, and performance practices, as well as their political and cultural work. Chapters in lelo Hawaii alternate with chapters in English, with translanguaging appearing when needed. Kamalani Johnson honors Larry Kauanoe Kimuras commitment to the revitalization of lelo Hawaii. Cover artist Ahukini Kupihea tells the story of his own creative process and uncovers the layers of meaning behind his artwork. Through careful analysis of nineteenth-century texts, R. Keawe Lopes, Jr., demonstrates the importance of moolelo and mele (song/poetic expression) preservation. Hiapo Perriera explores the profound relationship between moolelo and the resurgence of kklelo (oratory). Kekuhi KealiikanakaoleoHaililani shares a methodology and praxis for engaging with moolelo. Highlighting the ideology of aloha ina embedded in mele, Kahikina de Silva reveals themes of political resistance found in mele about food. Kaipulaumakaniolono Baker examines mele that archive key movements in Hawaiis history and employs contemporary practices to document current events. Tammy Hailipua Baker delineates the political implications of drawing on moolelo heritage in Kanaka Maoli theatre. kuualoha hoomanawanui focuses upon moolelo found in the politically conscious artwork of Kanaka Maoli whine (women) visual artists. Kamaoli Kuwada evaluates the difficulties and benefits of translation and stresses the importance of fluency. C. M. Kaliko Baker further demonstrates how fluency and comprehension of moolelo make it possible to retrieve essential empirical data on Hawaiian linguistic practice. Kalehua Krug takes us on his journey of learning to become a kkau ml (traditional tattoo artist). The essays together provide rich perspectives for Knaka Maoli seeking to understand their pasts, to define who they are today, and to set their courses for desired and necessary futures.