Margaret Noodin has made it her life’s work to fight for the future of the ancient Native American language Anishnaabemowin. Noodin’s new book of poetry is one way to keep this language alive and fresh. Weweni (Wayne State University Press) is a collection of poems in Anishinaabemowin and English.

“I became really curious about this place and the sound of this place. I mean, many of us are familiar with these words ‘Michigan,’ ‘Wisconsin,’ ‘Maniwaki’ – all these city names, place names that we’re very familiar with – and so gradually I became much more interested in finding out how to use that language now, in these places.”

“It’s a mix between trying to really respect and imitate as closely and clearly as we can the tradition before us, but then also carry it forward as a modern vibrant language and allow it to change.”

Listen to her interview with Michigan Radio!