I am getting a lot of questions about the Cherokee as a result of my story, A Cherokee Dying, and I will try to answer as many as I can. But, in the meantime, we are very lucky to have an official Cherokee Nation websife that has tons of information about Cheroikee history, culture and current affairs. All of this can be found at: www.Cherokee.org.
As to the question that a number of readers have asked in one form or another (Is this a true story? Did this really happen? Do Cherokee really bury their dead in a basket?) this story is like all such stories, a work of fiction that relies upon culture, history and personal impressions. When I write, I draw upon what I remember, what I’ve read, and what I imagine. And, yes, there are probably things in the story that are drawn from fantasy, but I know in my heart, that there is much drawn from the reality of a culture and a people truly unique and special in the history of mankind–the Cherokee.
And there is nothing of which I am more proud than my Cherokee heritage. If you haven’t yet read the story, A Cherokee Dying, take the time to read it now. Or print it out and make time to read it later. I guarantee you will not be disapointed.
Citizen Poet 