In the United States all the many
Native American tribes have their own version of the
trickster. One of these tricksters has become quite
popularized in recent years. His name is Kokopelli,
the hunchbacked flute player. He is also known as the
Casanova of the Cliff Dwellers.
It's believed this character was introduced by the
Anasazi Clan, where he seems to be most common.
Although, he is seen all over the Southwest. An interesting story regarding a Native American
trickster comes from the Winnebago tribe. In their
version of the Trickster - he apparently had a
penis which he could detach and send down river to
"have his way" with the young maidens who were
innocently bathing in the stream. Kokopelli typically possess characteristic traits
that distiguish him; his flute, humped back, and
prominate phallus are his trademarks. He is also
known for his passion for life.
In ancient Indian legend, Kokopelli the flute
player was the symbol of happiness and joy.
He talked to the wind and the sky. His flute could
be heard in the Spring breeze, bringing warmth after
the winter cold. Kokopelli embodies everything pure
and spiritual about music. He was also thought of as a fertility
god and traveling prankster. He would visit villages
playing his flute, carrying his songs on his back.
Everyone would sing and dance the night away.
In the morning, when he left, the crops were
plentiful and all the women were pregnant.
Kokopelli's female counterpart is Kokopelli Mana.
