Eyelian Culture- 7th edition

Nsikigan Ho´Tonanese Yourth

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Eyelian Culture- 7th edition

« on: 10 May 2008, 13:18:40 »

The Eyelian culture is widely regarded as a culture that has retained much of it's unique identity, even while bending and adapting to new lands. And even though it was thousands of years ago the Eyelians made their pilgrimage from parts unknown, they are still regarded as "foreigners" and face many cultural barriers, even in this age of unification. But the ways the Eyelians have integrated and blended with the rest of the Kingdom of Santharia are numerous. No longer do the majority of Eyelian cities communicate with the Ha’hep. They now communicate the same as any Proudman or Averonnian, be that by courier or Wynd Rider. From humble hunter beginnings, the Eyelians have developed into a sophisticated, cosmopolitan people with a strong link to their roots and the natural world.
The Eyelians are noted for this amazing understanding of nature, exemplified by the "familiars" they share a bond with. (Please note: Familiars are simply animals that have been tamed by Eyelians, not the mysterious spirit guides, referenced in the Eyelian entry. Also note the Eyelian word for “familiar is “Bo’en”, and they shall be referred to as such for the rest of the entry.) Families look upon their bo’ens not as pets, but as members of the family (albeit with wings, fur or claws). Bo’ens can generally look after themselves, and some (the larger predators) will leave the city limits to find food. Also the larger animals rarely stay with the Eyelians. In cities with high concentrations of Eyelians, any Tame can rent out a stable space for relatively cheap. These specially designed stables will often be strongly reinforced, so the beasts will not mingle or escape.
These bo’ens are extremely important to the Tamers- evidenced by the observation that some Eyelians even possess a remarkable resemblance to their natural brethren. Hence, the alertness and tufty hair common to those with birds and the unnatural strength to the Tamers who have tamed a larger animal, like a bear. This could, of course, only be a mix of coincidence and exaggeration, but to the Eyelians, it is a commonly accepted "Old Wives’ Tale".

Family Structures. Eyelian hierarchy seems based on nature, with the Patriarch and the Matriarch commanding equal respect, much as their counter-parts in a wolf pack would.- they share the Patriarch/Matriarch dynamic with wolves, and resemble herd animals like horses, in the way that their society shows little discrimination, and much equality. The mother and father, for instance, are held as equals, a twist rarely seen in modern Sarvonia. For instance, the Shendar are inclined to be matriarchal, while the Erephonians are a male-dominated society.
Another difference between Sarvonian and Eyelian society is that Eyelian society has a great deal more equality- there are no serfs and vassals, all men and women are equal. This is most likely an extension of family life. As in Eyelian communities, everyone in an Eyelian "nest" watches out for one another. Everyone, from the smallest cub (Eyelian vernacular for child) to the oldest owl (a common epitaph for the wise elders) finds a safe place to lay their heads at home, surrounded by a multitude of loving guardians, from bo’ens to uncles.
Eyelian families tend to be composed of the aforementioned parents, approximately two to four children, as well as the man's family. In the woman's family, if there are no men in their prime left to support the family, the eldest remain in charge, and the center of the family.
One may wonder why the new couple suddenly "takes charge" of the family. One wonders this, because one is not an Eyelian. To the Eyelian, this all makes perfect sense. It is the responsibility of the young in their prime to get married, and carry on their family's line. It is then the role of the couple to also take charge of the family's finances and well-being. At that point, it is the elders' job to step aside as the Patriarch and Matriarch, and fill in a new family role. Of course, no Eyelian would seek marriage without parental consent, so dissent from these three rules is nigh unheard of.
It is the role of these parents to support the very large Eyelian families. In older, traditional settlements, the parents are the hunters and gatherers, while in modern Eyelian homes, the parents are the primary workers, with live-in uncles and grandparents providing only a supplemental income. However, everyone in an Eyelian family is expected to help in some way. And with a family as big as an Eyelian’s, tasks tend to get done!
The uncles and aunts often bring in supplementary income, and are expected to help guard the homestead in traditional communities. This additional income is often found in the form of sustenance farming, small-game hunting, or perhaps free-lance work in certain crafts. Amantry is also a popular choice. Not all of the work the relatives do is meant to bring in income- uncles often act as “Wa’ahdens”, or sentinels. The task of sentinel is one extremely important to traditional Eyelian communities. These communities tend to be in isolated, rural, areas, without a battalion of soldiers within calling distance. Attacks can come from any direction. The coast brings pirates, the roads brigands, and the woods bring hungry wolves and giant rats.
Another important task done by the uncles and auntswhich brings in no immediate income is teaching the children.As the parents are often away at work, or busy rearing the children in other ways, the task of teaching the young specific crafts often falls to the aunts and uncles. This teaching is often done as the aunts and uncles work. If there are no uncles or aunts in the family, then this job falls to the Elders.
Any Eyelian quickly becomes a “ju’ek’atra’ad”, an Eyelian epitaph for one who holds a basic smattering of many skills, yet has mastered none. These children will of course learn their parents’ crafts, as will a child in any culture. But in an Eyelian family, there are many crafts to be learned. For instance, many young girls pick up Amantry from their aunts, and boys learn the tasks of a sentinel from their uncles. As far as actual chores go, however, the children tend to be given simpler jobs, like cleaning, and chasing birds from the fields.
While the elder’s also aid in the teaching of children, the do so on a much larger scale. The old act as “sharers of wisdom for the whole family”, imparting valuable advice, and solving conflicts between families, and within them. In an Eyelian community, the elders are highly valued, both as teachers and mediators.
"Please note that this family dynamic is not set in stone. For instance, the elders live with the male child who has married first. This means that his brothers will not have an elder living in their family. Also, due to the fact that the daughter's family does not move with her, there are families where the financial responsibility sits on the the unmarried brothers, and very rarely, the unmarried sisters. However, there is tremendous pressure in Eyelian society to marry young, so the only discrepensy commonly seen is the lack of an in-house elder. However, this is not a tremendous disadvantage, as closely related families will often live in close proximity, forming an almost clan-like bond."
Keep in mind, traditional and cosmopolitan families are drastically different. Traditional families tend to be part of a much greater whole, with the “entire pack raising the cub” as it were, while modern families are more often separated from other Eyelians. However, in cities with large Eyelian populations, the families often band together in ethnic neighborhoods. These „Tomo’odons“, or „whole worlds“, are very close-knit, and often feature beautiful parks and landscaping. They also feature unique "stables", also called "Tomobo’ens". These stables are homes for the neighborhood's larger bo’ens. For instance, in an average Tomobo’en, one may find Gryphs, wolves, or even Tagers. In non-Eyelian cities, these areas are harshly guarded, mainly from the villagers' fears. The proximity to these dangerous creatures can indeed be a cause for fright. However, these Tomobo’ens are becoming less common. The urbane Eyelian has adopted more socially acceptable bo’ens for the purpose of gaining trust, but mostly for convince. These bo’ens often include completely mundane animals, like dogs and cats.
Eyelian families tend to follow a similar schedule. Meals tend to be very important, group, affairs. Over a dinner of roasted Taenish and Kellian, the elders share stories, often in the language of the beasts. These stories are not "stories" as we know them- due to the primitive nature of the beast-tongue, they are more a series of concepts presented in a logical order. For instance, the tale of a great hunt would begin with the concept of hunger, moving to the concept of desire, the concept of excitement, and the concept of achievement. While a large Eyelian family growling, clucking, snarling, and laughing may seem strange, it perhaps grows stranger as a wolf pads near, a pair of stormcrows settles in the rafters, and four tiny lizards scamper to their child masters. But this is an average Eyelian meal, and it happens three times a day.

Education and Gender-Related Occupations. Eyelian children are taught differently depending on where they live. In traditional communities, the teaching is lorded over by a select group of elders, imparting the wisdom of the natural world, coupled with the task of learning a trade. Eyelian children often pick their craft early in life (around age 12 or so), and devote their lives to it. Eyelings (Eyelian children, sometimes affectionately known as „cubs“ or „jsals“) who have a fondness for the earth learn which crops grow best in which season, and what plants are too finicky for the native soil. These cubs are often taken to the fields, and participate in the harvest as much as possible. They will spread seed, till the earth, and scare away the crows. The latter job is a favorite among young cubs, who often favor a roar or howl to frighten birds away. Eyelians who live near the coast can have very different jobs as farmers. These land-keepers will often harvest not grain and vegetable, but salt from the ocean itself. This is a popular choice for cubs in certain communities, as it grants the young ones a chance to sneak away and play in the ocean’s surf and waves.
Cubs who show a talent for leadership are encouraged to lead the “gangs” young Eyelians form. The word gang does not carry the negative connotation it does in many other cultures. In the Eyelian tounge, “tomo’ajsal” is the word for gang, and actually means something approximate to “world of the young”. The members of individual tomo’ajsals frequently engage each other in play combat, shows of strength and enurance, and frequent footraces.
Some Eyelings even strive to be counted among the beast-masters, and those who show a prodigious talent for the beast-tongue are taken in by the beast-masters of the tribe. The beast-masters will teach the young Eyelians the nuances of the beast tounge, for instance, how body language can change the meaning of individual grunts, and how certain chirps will have different meanings to different birds. Becoming a beast-master is a long journey, often requiring frequent forays into the forest, but the rewards can be great.
By the age of sixteen, an Eyelian is prepared for his line of work, and may even be thinking about finding himself a wife, and starting his own pack. However, Eyelians rarely have children until at least age 18. The two years in between are used for the parents of the future parents to teach the art of child-rearing to the new couple.
These traditions are similar in urban areas. However, there tend to be more opportunities for these children. Every year, it seems, less city-cubs want to leave town for the old ways, and more want to strike it rich as merchants.

Possessions. Quantity of material possessions is not of great importance to Eyelians, but every item an Eyelian owns holds special importance to him or her. These items tend to be things like jewelry, weapons, and trinkets. Jewelry is perhaps the most common possession. Many Eyelians own many rings, necklaces, and bracelets, each celebrating different occasions. These items are commonly given as gifts on birthdays, and as tokens between young lovers. Weapons are also popular gifts, and are handed down from father to son. One spear haft may be as many as four generations old, the spearhead replaced whenever needed. Often, the arrow used for a hunter's first kill is saved, and placed in a spot of honor in the Eyelian home. All other tools and valuables, like plows and lumbar axes are owned by the community. Generosity is a chief virtue for Eyelians, or as they say it „One wolf’s kill is the whole pack’s meal“.

Freedom. Freedom is an integral part of Eyelian society, especially to the Bear clan. While some cultures prefer rigidity and daily schedules, Eyelian's prefer to simply know when they must work, and spend the rest of the time in spontaneous leisure activities. The bear tribe, as the most creative of the three places great importance on this leisure time, and has used it to compose some of the greatest pieces of artwork seen in Southern Sarvonia. All Eyelians are free to pick their own trade, and the concept of a „family-owned business“ is a completely foreign one.
Eyelians enjoy a great deal of leisure time, as chores are widely split up. This time is often spent learning songs and drum tattoos (pre-composed beats or rhythms), or seeking an animal to call friend and bo’en.

Consequences/Advantages. Eyelian culture is well preserved, through their strong oral tradition, and ancient family ties. This is what has saved Eyelians from losing their beliefs and traditions as they have become increasingly cosmopolitan, to the point of assimilation in some areas.
The strong family ethic is one that allows every Eyelian to sleep soundly, as uncles and aunts stand guard, and a veritable army of animals lies in wait for predators. The gratitude owed to these animals is so great that the beast has been placed on a pedestal in Eyelian culture, creating a healthy respect for Caelereth and all its inhabitants.
A combination of many factors, such as plentiful hunting, large families to help spread the work around, and no great desire for materialistic wealth, has allowed Eyelians to produce some of the greatest artists, philosophers, and musicians in all Sarvonia. It seems these factors are ones that could and should be emulated by other cultures, not only for the sake of saving tradition, but for the sake of the natural world.

A note on the researchers of the Eyelian people:
The Eyelians are blessed and cursed by their exotic nature- it has brought much attention (and scrutiny!) to these people. Some of the most famous researchers of the Eyelian Tamers are:
The noted author Capher, one of the most famous Santharian personalities. it is said that beyond being a strong and sturdy man who has journeyed far and wide across Sarvonia to learn more about not only the Eyelians, but several other tribes as well, he is the last of the shape-shifting dragons.
Lady Tiaa, a scholar most widely known for her studies of her Native Aeruillin;
Nsikigan Rocksilk Yourth, a young Eyelian who has made it his life's goal to spread knowledge of his people,
and Lady Talia, a strong Shendar woman known as one of the prime contributors to the Santharian Compendium, and a capable mentor to both Tiaa and Nsiki.


« Last Edit: 26 February 2009, 07:07:13 by Nsikigan Ho´Tonanese Yourth »	Logged

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Re: Eyelian Culture- Families, Education, Freedom+Privaleges

« Reply #1 on: 11 May 2008, 18:00:21 »

Commenty Goodness arrives!

The Eyelians are a folk with a culture which is better preserved than almost any other tribe of human. As the natural world around them remains consistent, so do the Tamers. But as Nature can be quick to change, so too can the Eyelians. How else to explain their rapid transition from forest-dwelling hunters and farmers to a cosmopolitan people still in touch with their millennia-old traditions?
Every aspect of Eyelian culture is touched by nature, and the „familiars“Eyelians often possess. Families look upon the creatures not as pets, but as sons to the parents and uncles to the children. Houses are designed specifically with certain beasts in mind, and some Eyelians even possess a remarkable resemblance to their natural brethren. Now you've got me thinking of furry grey human werewolf types. lol

Maybe an example or two?
   Even Eyelian hierarchy seems based on nature, with the Patriarch acting as the „Alpha Male“, and the mother commanding just as much respect. Everyone in an Eyelian „pack“ watches out for one another, and all members of the Eyelian aerie, from smallest cub, to oldest owl, find a safe place to lay their heads at home, surrounded by a multitude of loving guardians, from uncles to grandmothers.
space
Family Structures. Eyelian families resemble wolf packs in many ways. The mother and father are held as equals, in a twist not seen in any other culture. For instance, the Shendar are matriacarchal, while the Erephonians are a man-dominated society. Saying that they are the only culture who is equal seems a little...off I think. Maybe one of the few cultures who work like this? For example Brownies are fairly equal this way, although they don't acknowledge it so formally , and I'm sure they cannot be the only one.
   It is the role of these Alpha parents to support the very large Eyelian families. In older, traditional settlements, the parents are the hunters and gatherers, while in modern Eyelian homes, the parents are the primary workers, with live-in uncles and grandparents providing only a supplemental income, and that only rarely. However, everyone in an Eyelian family is expected to help in some way. And with a family as big as an Eyelian’s, tasks tend to get done!
   Eyelian families tend to be composed of the aforementioned parents, approximately two to four children, as well as any unmarried brothers of the father or mother, what about sisters? and the grandparents. Children tend to be given simpler jobs, like cleaning, and chasing birds from the fields. The uncles and aunts often bring in supplementary income, and are expected to help guard the homestead in traditional communities. The eldest members of the families tend to be too old to work. They instead act as peacekeepers and wisdom-bringers for the younger Eyelians.
   Keep in mind, traditional and cosmopolitan families are drastically different. Traditional families tend to be part of a much greater whole, with the „entire pack raising the cub“as it were, while modern families are more often separated from other Eyelians. However, in cities with large Eyelian populations, the families often band together in ethnic neighborhoods. These „Tomo’odons“, or „whole worlds“, are very close-knit, and often feature beautiful parks and landscaping. Nice

Eyelian families tend to follow a similar schedule. Meals tend to be very important, group, affairs. Over a dinner of roasted Taenish and Kellian, the elders share stories, often in the language of the beasts. While a large Eyelian family growling, clucking, snarling, and laughing may seem strange, it perhaps grows stranger as a wolf pads near, a pair of stormcrows settles in the rafters, and four tiny lizards scamper to their child masters. But this is an average Eyelian meal, and it happens three times a day.
space
Education and Gender-Related Occupations. Eyelian children are taught differently depending on where they live. In traditional communities, the teaching is lorded over by a select group of elders, imparting the wisdom of the natural world, coupled with the task of learning a trade. Eyelian children often pick their craft early in life (around age 12 or so), and devote their lives to it. Eyelings (Eyelian children, sometimes affectionately known as „cubs“ or „jsals“) who have a fondness for the earth learn which crops grow best in which season, and what plants are too finicky for the native soil. Others who show a talent for leadership are encouraged to lead their band of friends, and are taught the ways of the chief. Some Eyelings even strive to be counted among the beastmasters, and those who show a prodigious talent for the beast-tongue are taken in by the beast-masters of the tribe. By the age of sixteen, an Eyelian is prepared for his line of work, and may even be thinking about finding himself a wife, and starting his own pack.
These traditions are similar in urban areas. However, there tend to be more opportunities for these children. Every year, it seems, less city-cubs want to leave town for the old ways, and more want to strike it rich as merchants.

Possessions. Quantity of material possessions is not of great importance to Eyelians, but every item an Eyelian owns holds special importance to him or her. These items tend to be things like jewelry, weapons, and trinkets. All other tools and valuables, like plows and lumbar axes are owned by the community. Generosity is a chief virtue for Eyelians, or as they say it „One wolf’s kill is the whole pack’s meal“.

Freedom. Freedom is an integral part of Eyelian society, especially to the Bear clan. All Eyelians are free to pick their own trade, and the concept of a „family-owned business“ is a completely foreign one.
Eyelians enjoy a great deal of leisure time, as chores are widely split up. This time is often spent learning songs and drum tattoos, or seeking an animal to call friend and familiar.

Consequences/Advantages. Eyelian culture is well preserved, through their strong oral tradition, and ancient family ties. This is what has saved Eyelians from losing their beliefs and traditions as they have been continually cosmopolitized, to the point of assimilation in some areas.
The strong family ethic is one that allows every Eyelian to sleep soundly, as uncles and aunts stand guard, and a veritable army of animals lies in wait for predators. The gratitude owed to these animals is so great that the beast has been placed on a pedestal in Eyelian culture, creating a healthy respect for Caelereth and all its inhabitants.
The lack of many chores has allowed Eyelians to produce some of the greatest artists, philosophers, and musicians in all Sarvonia. It seems these factors are ones that could and should be emulated by other cultures, not only for the sake of saving tradition, but for the sake of the natural world.

Some fascinating ideas here, Nsikigan. Eyelians are really quite lovely people. One thing I noticed is that you seem to refer to the ways of the wolf clan more than others - the families are "packs" the children "cubs". I'm not sure if this is intentional though

.

Hope that helps you, and good luck!


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Nsikigan Ho´Tonanese Yourth

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Re: Eyelian Culture- Families, Education, Freedom+Privaleges

« Reply #2 on: 12 May 2008, 00:55:58 »

Thank you very much Rookie!
The close association with wolves was intentional, as they are in many ways the "central" Eyelian clan. However, I have tried to reference others, eg. the house=Aerie, the children, I was thinking bear cubs.


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Nsikigan Ho´Tonanese Yourth

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Re: Eyelian Culture- Done w/ Shendar culture as a template

« Reply #3 on: 29 May 2008, 07:59:10 »

A small bump, as this will be used in my Vezash entry, if it gets approved. Also, I would like Talia's comments, as I used her entry as a template.
Thank you!


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Ta`lia of the Seven Jewels

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Re: Eyelian Culture- Done w/ Shendar culture as a template

« Reply #4 on: 29 May 2008, 21:24:14 »

Ermm, you should send me a PM or better bellring if you wish a comment. I do not read every post anymore

I have to look over Smee's submissions first (and Rookies Rat Brownies, I promised), but then I will have a look at yours.

Btw, what I used was not a template, just an agglomeration of what came to my mind. Perhaps somebody should do a proper template

Is update this week or next?


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Nsikigan Ho´Tonanese Yourth

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Re: Eyelian Culture- Done w/ Shendar culture as a template

« Reply #5 on: 29 May 2008, 21:33:03 »

This week, Talia.
And a proper template would be nice, but I think your entry served fairly well. I'll probably end up condencing a few of my entries, and mabye I'll design a template for culture based off that.
Thanks for the time, Tal!


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Smee

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Re: Eyelian Culture- Done w/ Shendar culture as a template

« Reply #6 on: 31 May 2008, 21:11:22 »

Hey Nsikigan,

I'll be looking through this, having no knowledge of the Eyelains, and therefore will be hoping to learn from this entry. The comments I'll be making will reflect this. Sometimes I simply won't understand, which might indicate some clarification is needed, or that I'm just dumb

Lets see how we do...

~

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The Eyelians are a folk with a culture which is better preserved than almost any other tribe of human.

This starting sentence is a little clunky. And at the start of any piece of writing, we really want it to capture the reader and not give them any problems before they've even got into it.

I suggest stripping out some words, and making it more concise, and less of a tongue twister. Something like ... "The Eyelians's culture is better preserved than almost any other human tribe."

~

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As the natural world around them remains consistent, so do the Tamers. But as Nature can be quick to change, so too can the Eyelians.

Again, abit of a tongue twister. And as this is the first mention of 'Tamers' in this entry, I would suggest you make it 'Eyelian Tamers' in this instance, so newbs like me know what you mean. (I had never heard of Tamers).

Ok... how to re-arrange this sentence. Following on from the first sentence, we don't really need to name them again. It was just said. So perhaps something like... "Their very way of life, so in tune with the land around them, mimicks perfectly the inherent stablity and capability for change that nature displays."

~

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Every aspect of Eyelian culture is touched by nature, and the „familiars“Eyelians often possess.

Ok - we're talking about the familiars now, which I perceive from reading the rest of this entry, as being perhaps the most important link to nature that sets the Tamers apart from other human tribes. This paragraph goes into some detail about the familiars, so lets bring them to start, and therefore the focus, of the sentence. I'm not sure the word 'posses' gives the right impression. As you say in the next sentence, they aren't pets that are owned...

"Perhaps the biggest demonstration of the Eyelian's connection with nature, is the link they form with their 'familiars'."

~

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Families look upon the creatures not as pets, but as sons to the parents and uncles to the children

I'm not sure, are these animals never female then? Or could you just say, "...look upon the creatures not as pets, but as part of the family."

~

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Everyone in an Eyelian „pack“ watches out for one another, and all members of the Eyelian aerie, from smallest cub, to oldest owl, find a safe place to lay their heads at home, surrounded by a multitude of loving guardians, from uncles to grandmothers.

Woah.. this confused me. So many different animal terms! How is a pack different from an aerie. Is an aerie a group of packs? Or another word for a pack? Perhaps expand on this part, explaining the terms. e.g. "From the smallest child, known as cubs. To the oldest grandmothers known as owls as a mark of respect for their wisdom..." or something like that. Help me understand all these terms rather than just throwing them out. Once you've explained them at the beginning, you don't need to mention 'children' again later on, just call them cubs.

~

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while the Erephonians are a man-dominated society

I think 'male-dominated' sounds a little better. Nice links to other cultures though

Quote

It is the role of these Alpha parents to support the very large Eyelian families. In older, traditional settlements, the parents are the hunters and gatherers, while in modern Eyelian homes, the parents are the primary workers, with live-in uncles and grandparents providing only a supplemental income, and that only rarely. However, everyone in an Eyelian family is expected to help in some way. And with a family as big as an Eyelian’s, tasks tend to get done!

Eyelian families tend to be composed of the aforementioned parents, approximately two to four children, as well as any unmarried brothers of the father or mother, and the grandparents. Sisters tend to live with their original family. Children tend to be given simpler jobs, like cleaning, and chasing birds from the fields. The uncles and aunts often bring in supplementary income, and are expected to help guard the homestead in traditional communities. The eldest members of the families tend to be too old to work. They instead act as peacekeepers and wisdom-bringers for the younger Eyelians.

I suggest switching these two paragraphs around. The latter explains the former, and makes more sense. I was confused reading the first paragraph until I had read the second.

~

Quote

ep in mind, traditional and cosmopolitan families are drastically different. Traditional families tend to be part of a much greater whole, with the „entire pack raising the cub“as it were, while modern families are more often separated from other Eyelians. However, in cities with large Eyelian populations, the families often band together in ethnic neighborhoods. These „Tomo’odons“, or „whole worlds“, are very close-knit, and often feature beautiful parks and landscaping.

I like this part. The idea of the Tomo'odons is nice.

~

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Haha, this made me smile. A lovely image.

Note the quick typo in yellow.

~

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Others who show a talent for leadership are encouraged to lead their band of friends, and are taught the ways of the chief.

Ooh, this is interesting. But 'lead' their friends in what? Are there cubs in each profession who show themselves to be leaders, and become like the 'head boy' of the young famers perhaps? How can they lead, if they don't have a profession? I'm a little confused.

~

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This time is often spent learning songs and drum tattoos

What are drum tattoos? Is this explained in some other entry and will be linked?

~

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This is what has saved Eyelians from losing their beliefs and traditions as they have been continually cosmopolitized, to the point of assimilation in some areas.

I'm not sure 'cosmopolitized' is a word. And it should be an 's' instead of a 'z' if it were. There's only 'cosmopolitan', so a slight rewording to make this fit...

"...as they continually become more cosmopolitan, to the..."

~

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The lack of many chores has allowed Eyelians to produce some of the greatest artists, philosophers, and musicians in all Sarvonia. It seems these factors are ones that could and should be emulated by other cultures, not only for the sake of saving tradition, but for the sake of the natural world.

Oooh, a hippy movement in Santharia... hahaha. Nice.

~

They sound a fascinating people, Nsikigan. And you have a lot of ideas for them. I look forward to further development.

Happy Dreamin'


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Nsikigan Ho´Tonanese Yourth

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Re: Eyelian Culture- Done w/ Shendar culture as a template

« Reply #7 on: 02 June 2008, 01:04:22 »

Thank you very much, Smee. Your comments have now been fully integrated in orange.
Hopefully this gets up by the time the week's update is finished.


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Re: Eyelian Culture- Done w/ Shendar culture as a template

« Reply #8 on: 10 June 2008, 02:49:42 »

The Eyelian's culture is perhaps better preserved then any other human tribe. (This is a big statement to make..perhaps say that the Eyelian culture is still very much in tune with its past) Much like the natural world, the Eyelian Tamers change with the season, but always retain the same rocks and trees. (Hrm..I don't quite follow that analogy.) How else to explain their rapid transition from forest-dwelling hunters and farmers to a cosmopolitan people still in touch with their millennia-old traditions?

The Eyelians are noted for thier amazing link to nature, exemplified by the "famillers" they share a bond with. Families look upon ~~the creatures~~ (<- their familiars) not as pets, but as members of the family (albiet with wings, fur or claws). Houses are designed specifically with certain beasts in mind (<- that is never really explained), and some Eyelians even possess a remarkable resemblance to their natural brethren. Hence, the alertness and tufty hair common to those with birds, and the unnatural strength to the Tamers who have tamed a larger animal, like a bear. (Is this truly a fact or rumor/myth told by outsiders? Appearance I can understand, but strength?)

Even Eyelian hierarchy seems based on nature, with the Patriarch acting as the „Alpha Male“, and the mother commanding just as much respect. Everyone in an Eyelian "nest" watches out for one another. Everyone, from the smallest cub (Eyelian vernacular for child) to the oldest owl (a common epitaph for the wise elders) find a safe place to lay their heads at home, surrounded by a multitude of loving gaurdians, from fammilers to uncles.

Family Structures. Eyelian families resemble wolf packs in many ways. The mother and father are held as equals, in a twist rarely seen in modern Sarvonia. For instance, the Shendar are matriacarchal, while the Erephonians are a male-dominated society. (Perhaps tell the difference between the structures of different tribes rather than simply name them.)

Eyelian families tend to be composed of the aforementioned parents, approximately two to four children, as well as any unmarried brothers of the father or mother, and the grandparents. Sisters tend to live with their original family. Children tend to be given simpler jobs, like cleaning, and chasing birds from the fields. The uncles and aunts often bring in supplementary income (<- How so?), and are expected to help guard the homestead in traditional communities. The eldest members of the families tend to be too old to work. They instead act as peacekeepers and wisdom-bringers for the younger Eyelians. (I think it would be nice if a bit more detail was given for each of the family members - how do they protect the community? Protect from what? How else are children used or supported?)

It is the role of these Alpha parents to support the very large Eyelian families. In older, traditional settlements, the parents are the hunters and gatherers, while in modern Eyelian homes, the parents are the primary workers, with live-in uncles and grandparents providing only a supplemental income, and that only rarely. However, everyone in an Eyelian family is expected to help in some way. And with a family as big as an Eyelian’s, tasks tend to get done!

Keep in mind, traditional and cosmopolitan families are drastically different. Traditional families tend to be part of a much greater whole, with the „entire pack raising the cub“as it were, while modern families are more often separated from other Eyelians. However, in cities with large Eyelian populations, the families often band together in ethnic neighborhoods. These „Tomo’odons“, or „whole worlds“, are very close-knit, and often feature beautiful parks and landscaping. (How do familiars live and cope within a city? Are the Eyelian homes specially built within a city? What do the neighbors think?)

Eyelian families tend to follow a similar schedule. Meals tend to be very important, group, affairs. Over a dinner of roasted Taenish and Kellian, the elders share stories, often in the language of the beasts. While a large Eyelian family growling, clucking, snarling, and laughing may seem strange, it perhaps grows stranger as a wolf pads near, a pair of stormcrows settles in the rafters, and four tiny lizards scamper to their child masters. But this is an average Eyelian meal, and it happens three times a day.

Education and Gender-Related Occupations. Eyelian children are taught differently depending on where they live. In traditional communities, the teaching is lorded over by a select group of elders, imparting the wisdom of the natural world, coupled with the task of learning a trade. Eyelian children often pick their craft early in life (around age 12 or so), and devote their lives to it. Eyelings (Eyelian children, sometimes affectionately known as „cubs“ or „jsals“) who have a fondness for the earth learn which crops grow best in which season, and what plants are too finicky for the native soil. Others who show a talent for leadership are encouraged to lead their band of friends, much as a young orc may be the head of a gang of his childhood friends, or a child of another human tribe may grow to be respected by his own group, deciding what activities of wonderlust his friends will embark on that day. and are taught the ways of the chief. Some Eyelings even strive to be counted among the beastmasters, and those who show a prodigious talent for the beast-tongue are taken in by the beast-masters of the tribe. By the age of sixteen, an Eyelian is prepared for his line of work, and may even be thinking about finding himself a wife, and starting his own pack.
These traditions are similar in urban areas. However, there tend to be more opportunities for these children. Every year, it seems, less city-cubs want to leave town for the old ways, and more want to strike it rich as merchants.
(Perhaps cover each area of skill in a separate and paragraph and explain. You can tell alot more with this section I think.)

Possessions. Quantity of material possessions is not of great importance to Eyelians, but every item an Eyelian owns holds special importance to him or her. These items tend to be things like jewelry, weapons, and trinkets. All other tools and valuables, like plows and lumbar axes are owned by the community. Generosity is a chief virtue for Eyelians, or as they say it „One wolf’s kill is the whole pack’s meal“. (Examples? How would a weapon be important to an average elder? Or jewelry to a teenage girl?)

Freedom. Freedom is an integral part of Eyelian society, especially to the Bear clan. (How?) All Eyelians are free to pick their own trade, and the concept of a „family-owned business“ is a completely foreign one.
Eyelians enjoy a great deal of leisure time, as chores are widely split up. This time is often spent learning songs and drum tattoos (pre-composed beats or rhythms), or seeking an animal to call friend and familiar.

Consequences/Advantages. Eyelian culture is well preserved, through their strong oral tradition, and ancient family ties. This is what has saved Eyelians from losing their beliefs and traditions as they have become increasingly cosmopolitan, to the point of assimilation in some areas.
The strong family ethic is one that allows every Eyelian to sleep soundly, as uncles and aunts stand guard, and a veritable army of animals lies in wait for predators. The gratitude owed to these animals is so great that the beast has been placed on a pedestal in Eyelian culture, creating a healthy respect for Caelereth and all its inhabitants.
The lack of many chores has allowed Eyelians to produce some of the greatest artists, philosophers, and musicians in all Sarvonia. It seems these factors are ones that could and should be emulated by other cultures, not only for the sake of saving tradition, but for the sake of the natural world.

(How does an Eyelian rectify the need to hunt for food and their kinship with animals? Don't they have to kill an animal for food? Are there any specific Eyelian rules concerning what to eat and what not to eat? Are certain animals sacred to them?)

(Overall, I think this is a good outline of the Eyelian culture, but I think it requires a great deal more detail. There is alot here that could use some more explaining. Alot of the How and Why needs to be examined and logically told.)


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Nsikigan Ho´Tonanese Yourth

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Re: Eyelian Culture- 4th edition

« Reply #9 on: 13 June 2008, 06:54:31 »

Alright changes made. Thank you very much Azhira!
Now, to address the frequent "meat-eating" question, here is a quote from the Eyelian entry under diet.

Quote

Eyelians eat just about anything. Even though they worship the spirit of the wolf, eagle and bear they realize these animals eat meat and so do they, including those animals they worship. They understand that the animals were placed in the world for a reason, and that was to provide sustenance for the people. However, they do so for sustenance only and not for sport. Eyelians will oppose anyone they think is harming nature or the animals if they believe it is being done out of pure sport or maliciousness.


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Ta`lia of the Seven Jewels

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Re: Eyelian Culture- 4th edition

« Reply #10 on: 13 June 2008, 20:58:31 »

This looks very interesting, Nsiki. Unfortunately I have to cook now and no time for a thorough comment. Two things sprang into my eyes however - the use of "alpha" male - though it is used on the site (and not corrected) we try to avoid it, it sounds like a modern term (and we have no "alpha"). Especially used for humans sounds wrong for me. The other point goes into the same direction - your whole post seems a bit too scientific - ethnic groupings e.g.

I hope I find the time today to look it over, otherwise on Monday!


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Nsikigan Ho´Tonanese Yourth

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Re: Eyelian Culture- 4th edition

« Reply #11 on: 13 June 2008, 22:56:40 »

Thank you, Talia!
Now, about the Alpha males, I wanted to use it because of the already present refrence in the wolf entry. But perhaps both mine and the wolf entry should be change... perhaps to whatever "a" in styrash is?


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Ta`lia of the Seven Jewels

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Re: Eyelian Culture- 4th edition

« Reply #12 on: 14 June 2008, 03:08:09 »

Nsiki, I'm afraid you have to wait for Monday, I'm stressed right now, house full of kids (rather grown up though) and tomorrow at half past five we leave for Prague!