Wisdom Sits in Places by Keith H. Basso examines the critical role of place-names in the culture and language of the Western Apache through four essays, each featuring different members of the Cibecue community in Arizona. By exploring their traditions of place-making, historical storytelling, "speaking with names," and how these practices contribute to wisdom and social conduct, Basso argues for the importance of understanding cultural worldviews through their connection to the landscape. The book discusses themes of cultural continuity and change, particularly regarding the younger generation's engagement with traditional wisdom practices.

Keith H. Basso's Wisdom Sits in Places has been praised for its insightful exploration of the Western Apache's relationship with their landscape, combining ethnography and narrative eloquence. Readers appreciate its depth and evocative storytelling. However, some critique it for academic density, making it less accessible to general audiences. Overall, the book is a profound cultural study.

Readers who enjoy Wisdom Sits in Places by Keith H. Basso are often those interested in cultural anthropology, Indigenous studies, and the interplay between language and landscape. Comparable works include Clifford Geertz's The Interpretation of Cultures and Wade Davis's The Wayfinders, focusing on ethnographic narratives and cultural preservation.

Informative / Contemplative / Mysterious / Nostalgic

- Wisdom Sits in Places, published in 1996, is an influential work that explores the deep connections between language, land, and identity in Western Apache culture.
- The book's author, Keith H. Basso, was a noted anthropologist and ethnographer known for his extensive work with the Western Apache, utilizing linguistic anthropology to uncover cultural meanings tied to geographic locations.
- In 1997, Wisdom Sits in Places won the Western States Book Award for Creative Nonfiction, highlighting its impact beyond academic circles into mainstream recognition.

**Keith Basso**  
An American anthropologist who conducts fieldwork among the Western Apache, Basso is both an observer and a participant in the narrative. His journey of learning and immersing himself in the Apache culture is central to the story. 

**Charles Henry**  
A member of the Western Apache community who interacts with Basso, sharing experiences that contribute to Basso's understanding of Apache culture. Known for unique exchanges that provide insight into cultural practices.

**Morley Cromwell**  
An Apache individual involved in anecdotes that Basso shares to illustrate cultural nuances and personal experiences within the community.

**Nick Thompson**  
A Western Apache community member who shares interactions with Basso, providing moments of cultural exchange and humor that highlight the dynamics between Basso and the community.

Keith H. Basso

Adult

Book

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Wisdom Sits in Places reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Wisdom Sits in Places | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Wisdom Sits in Places and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Wisdom Sits in Places Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Preface-Chapter 1

Wisdom Sits in Places Preface-Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2 Wisdom Sits in Places Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3 Wisdom Sits in Places Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4-Epilogue

Wisdom Sits in Places Chapter 4-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

keyFigure

Key Figures

Wisdom Sits in Places Key Figures

theme

Themes

Wisdom Sits in Places Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Wisdom Sits in Places Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

character

Important Quotes

Wisdom Sits in Places Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Wisdom Sits in Places Essay Topics

Wisdom Sits in Places

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Wisdom Sits in Places?

Reading Age

Book Details