The Essence of Tall Bear
by Adrian Roman
Tall Bear is a song about an Indian boy growing up during the 1950’s in Oklahoma. Angered by widespread prejudice he is forced to fight for survival and wounded pride. Tall Bear speaks to and for thousands of Indian children who faced and managed to overcome similar problems.
Stirred by a vision and vivid imagination he invents an invincible warrior named Tall Bear. Tall Bear is cocky - assertive with an attitude. He is ready to fight anyone at the drop of a hat and WIN.
When the B.I.A. (Bureau of Indian Affairs) Relocation Program promises the family a new and wonderful life in a faraway city, the young Indian teenager is reluctant to leave his homeland. In an alien city the family unit is fragmented and divided; some members are plagued by alcoholism. Without roots the teen struggles in the multi-ethnic melting pot.
Eventually he experiences success thru martial arts and music; in the process his heart is mended. He begins to listen more closely to his elders rediscovering his Native American heritage and culture. After many years he becomes a leader of men.
Following the vision of his youth he is transformed from boy to Tall Bear and then the Eagle.