In the Journal of the First Voyage to America by Christopher Columbus, an aspect of his writing that was very interesting is that Columbus is very descriptive in his work. He seems to pay a lot of attention to the land and its beauty, and easily expresses a great respect for nature through his vivid description. Columbus' writing can also be compared to that of Native American authors in that in their writing they both seem to have a great respect for the land and its importance. .
Columbus' descriptive observations expressed in his journal clearly shows that he was very interested in the land. He describes the land by using all of his senses. He notes the green foliage, the beautiful lakes, chirping birds, and he even compares the island to his homeland of Andalusia. This comparison shows that he has a great respect for the land, but we also must consider that he was writing this journal for the benefit of the king and queen of Spain. This journal was a way to "advertise" the newly discovered land and promote colonization. Columbus still believed that he was in the Indies and his motives for traveling had not changed. He was still in search for gold and spices.
Columbus' descriptive style of writing is very similar to that Native American description. They both show a great respect for the land and its resources through their vivid description. In the Navajo Origin Legend the importance of nature is emphasized because the Native Americans are so dependent on the land to survive. In his journal, Columbus notes the importance of good water and he relies of the help of the natives to find it. Just like the natives, Columbus must depend on the land for survival and this is why he describes the land so vividly.
