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Moana is packed with symbols that deepen the film's meaning. Through archetypes, semiotic analysis, historical references, and more, Moana is more than just a story about a girl trying to save the world.

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Her shell is on top of the rocks that represent all of the previous chiefs.

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This scene shows how the ocean falls into the magician archetype. It also shows how signs and symbols can create a symbolic scene without using dialogue.

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The way you perceive the world is unique. Based on your interactions with words, ideas, and events, different objects, or words, can have different meanings to you. Explore different examples of symbolic interactionism at play in society.

Symbolic experience with a dog

What Is Symbolic Interactionism?

While it might seem like a big name, symbolic interactionism is how your experiences add subjective meanings to symbols and letters. For example, the word 'dog' is just a series of letters. Through your interactions with the letters 'dog', you see this as a furry, four-legged canine.

But it doesn't just stop there. Depending on your experiences with dogs, this arrangement of letters could hold negative or positive meanings. For example, if you were bitten by a dog as a child, then the letters 'dog' could make you afraid. However, if a dog was your best friend growing up, then 'dog' might hold a positive connotation.

While everyone knows what the letters 'dog' means, a canine animal, the meaning the word holds for you is subjective. Therefore, your interactions color the symbolic meanings assigned to words, objects, thoughts, events, and people. Explore some other examples of symbolic interactionism.

Simple Symbolic Interactionism Examples in Everyday Life

When looking at a complex theory, it's always best to start simply. Some symbols are easy to recognize and hold concrete meanings within societies. While some can be subjective, a few symbols you recognize through your interactions with them are:

An image of a stick figure with a dress means woman.

An image of a stick figure without a dress means man.

A drawing of a heart means love.

A bald eagle means freedom and America.

A stick figure sitting in a chair with a large wheel means handicapped.

Putting your thumb up means yes.

Putting your thumb down means no.

Skull and crossbones mean danger.

A balance symbolizes justice.

The lone t shape symbolizes a cross, spirituality, or religion.

Water holds the meaning of rebirth, vitality, or cleansing.

Examples of Symbolic Interactionism in Society

Societies are full of symbolic interactionism. And your interactions are different based on the society in which you live. Additionally, many symbolic interactionism examples seen throughout society can be subjective, based on your experiences with that particular symbol. Check out a few different society examples of symbolic interactionism.

American Flag

The American flag to some is a symbol of freedom, hope, and pride. However, for others, the American flag can be seen as a symbol of oppression. Depending on your interaction with the American flag, the meaning behind it will be different.

Gender

Gender can be understood through symbolic interactionism because gender is a sociological construct. For example, for the symbols attached to "males" and "females", actions and looks are based on what is believed is true from your interactions rather than what is objectively true. For example, women might be seen as weaker than men. A man wearing a dress might be seen as feminine. These problematic attributes lead to inequality and biases such as women getting paid less than men in the workforce.

Colorism

Race and ethnicity is another area where symbolic interactionism comes into play. This can definitely be seen through the issue of colorism. In colorism, people of the same racial identification are treated differently based on the lightness or darkness of their skin. For example, a study by Lance Hannon on colorism demonstrated lighter-skinned Latinos "looked" smarter according to Caucasians.

Relationship Roles

Symbolic interactionism plays a big role in family and relationships. Your understanding of a word or event changes based on interactions with it. For example, if you have a great relationship with your wife, the word wife will be positive. However, if your relationship with your wife is rocky, the meaning behind the word and what a wife symbolizes changes.

Rainbow

Societies' meanings behind symbols can change and morph with time. One example of this is the meaning of a rainbow. The rainbow has been seen as a Christian symbol of hope but another meaning of rainbow is now associated with the LGBTQ community.

Meaning Behind Symbolic Interaction

The way you see the world colors your understanding of it. Look no further than symbolic interactionism to see how this is true. Interested to explore more about behaviors, check out operant conditioning examples.

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Symbolic Interactionism Examples in Everyday Life

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The way you perceive the world is unique. Based on your interactions with words, ideas, and events, different objects, or words, can have different meanings to you. Explore different examples of symbolic interactionism at play in society. Symbolic experience with a dog While it might seem like a big name, symbolic interactionism is how your experiences add subjective meanings to symbols and letters.

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Moana struggling to fit the mold of chief

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Moana struggling to fit the mold of chief

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This is the beginning of the film when Moana is struggling to be the leader that her father expects her to be.

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Odyssey's article on why Moana is inspiring 

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Odyssey's article on why Moana is inspiring 

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From a new Disney princess ethnicity to no love interest, this article shows why Moana is so much more than another princess film.

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7 Reasons Why Disney's Moana Is Magnificent

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Moana is a character girls can proudly aspire to be

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A Pacific-islander shares her perspective on the cultural appropriation in the film

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A Pacific-islander shares her perspective on the cultural appropriation in the film

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Founder of talanoa.com.au

A forthcoming Disney movie tells the story of Moana, a Polynesian girl who teams up with demi-god Maui to save her people. But some people have said the film and its merchandise are appropriating Pacific Island culture.

Arieta Rika, who founded a website called Talanoa as a home for Pacific stories, told the BBC how she wants her culture to be celebrated.

As a Pacific person, I can't tell you how excited I am to see this movie. Seeing faces that look like mine, telling a story that relates to me. I just don't have the words.

I haven't felt this excited about a Disney film in decades.

I am excited that the film has given a voice to many Pacific people who might have otherwise gone unheard when discussing issues about culture, people and place in the context of the Pacific and our stories.

It has also raised important questions about cultural appropriation and misappropriation. Is Disney doing it right?

Is there a way to celebrate Moana and Pacific culture, without offending Pacific people?

What is Moana?

The second Disney film set in the Pacific Islands (after Lilo and Stitch, set in Hawaii)

The story of a Polynesian girl who teams up with a Samoan demi-god Maui to go on a quest and save her people

Maui - voiced by Dwayne Johnson, stage name The Rock - is based on a Polynesian legend

According to myth, Maui created the Pacific Islands by fishing them from the sea

I've yet to watch the movie, but so far, it looks like Disney has applied four important aspects of Pacific culture: awareness, context, relationship and respect.

This week, Disney released a children's costume for Maui, a character in the Moana film. I get it - Disney knows and appreciates that children across the world will fall in love with Maui, and like many other Disney characters, they'll want nothing more than to look exactly like him.

On paper, it seems like a pretty logical decision to create a costume.

There is not much to work with in terms of clothes though, as he only wears a grass skirt and a necklace made of shells. Hence the final product that Disney released - a body suit with brown skin, tattoos, Maui's necklace, and a grass skirt.

In reality, it has offended many Pacific people. I understand the reasoning behind the grass skirt and the necklace, but the brown skin is too far, and the tattoos are culturally misappropriated.

Tattoos are deeply meaningful to Pacific people. Like a fingerprint, a tattoo is unique to each person.

Our markings tell a personal story that we carry with us on our skin, everywhere we go - constantly reminding us of our values, our people, and our identity.

It is considered taboo and extremely disrespectful in many Pacific cultures to wear the markings of a people or place that you are not spiritually or physically connected to. After the release of Moana, Maui may be a Disney character to some, but to many Pacific people, he is very real - a hero, ancestor, demi-God and a spiritual guide.

Even for Pacific people who don't believe in Maui, replicating a Polynesian tattoo and offering it to children for a price is belittling and trivializing an intimate aspect of Pacific people and culture.

Knowing this, Disney could have reconsidered their decision to include tattoos on Maui's costume. That would have also eliminated the need for the brown skin body suit that many consider "brownface". They also would have anticipated the backlash from Pacific people who interpret their decision as inappropriate and disrespectful at best - and at worst, a way to make money from a particularly significant aspect of Pacific culture.

You need not be a Pacific person to enjoy and respect Moana, Maui and Pacific culture. Many Pacific people welcome questions. Taking initiative and starting these conversations creates trust, shows respect and ultimately, could be the start of a meaningful relationship between you and Pacific culture, and a Pacific person.

In the meantime, I will be eagerly waiting for the release of Moana. If anything, I appreciate the opportunity it is giving me and many other Pacific people to share our thoughts, our opinions, and our stories.

After all, having these conversations on a global scale is important, and it is what I and many Pacific people who have gone before me have been waiting for, for centuries.

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How did Disney get Moana so right and Maui so wrong?

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As Disney is accused of cultural appropriation with its new film, Moana, one Pacific Islander says you can celebrate her culture without trivialising it.

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The Hero's Journey is a timeless story structure which follows a protagonist on an unforeseen quest, where they face challenges, gain insights, and return home transformed. From Theseus and the Minotaur to The Lion King, so many narratives follow this pattern that it's become ingrained into our cultural DNA.

In this post, we'll show you how to make this classic plot structure work for you - and if you're pressed for time, download our cheat sheet below for everything you need to know.

Hero's Journey Template

What is the Hero's Journey?

The Hero's Journey, also known as the monomyth, is a story structure where a hero goes on a quest or adventure to achieve a goal, and has to overcome obstacles and fears, before ultimately returning home transformed.

This narrative arc has been present in various forms across cultures for centuries, if not longer, but gained popularity through Joseph Campbell's mythology book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces. While Campbell identified 17 story beats in his monomyth definition, this post will concentrate on a 12-step framework popularized in 2007 by screenwriter Christopher Vogler in his book The Writer's Journey.

The 12 Steps of the Hero's Journey

The Hero's Journey is a model for both plot points and character development: as the Hero traverses the world, they'll undergo inner and outer transformation at each stage of the journey. The 12 steps of the hero's journey are:

1. The Ordinary World. We meet our hero.

2. Call to Adventure. Will they meet the challenge?

3. Refusal of the Call. They resist the adventure.

4. Meeting the Mentor. A teacher arrives.

5. Crossing the First Threshold. The hero leaves their comfort zone.

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies. Making friends and facing roadblocks.

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave. Getting closer to our goal.

8. Ordeal. The hero's biggest test yet!

9. Reward (Seizing the Sword). Light at the end of the tunnel

10. The Road Back. We aren't safe yet.

11. Resurrection. The final hurdle is reached.

12. Return with the Elixir. The hero heads home, triumphant.

Believe it or not, this story structure also applies across mediums and genres (and also works when your protagonist is an anti-hero!). Let's dive into it.

1. Ordinary World
In which we meet our Hero.
The journey has yet to start. Before our Hero discovers a strange new world, we must first understand the status quo: their ordinary, mundane reality.

It's up to this opening leg to set the stage, introducing the Hero to readers. Importantly, it lets readers identify with the Hero as a "normal" person in a "normal" setting, before the journey begins.

2. Call to Adventure
In which an adventure starts.
The call to adventure is all about booting the Hero out of their comfort zone. In this stage, they are generally confronted with a problem or challenge they can't ignore. This catalyst can take many forms, as Campbell points out in Hero with a Thousand Faces. The Hero can, for instance:

Decide to go forth of their own volition;

Theseus upon arriving in Athens.

Be sent abroad by a benign or malignant agent;

Odysseus setting off on his ship in The Odyssey.

Stumble upon the adventure as a result of a mere blunder;

Dorothy when she's swept up in a tornado in The Wizard of Oz.

Be casually strolling when some passing phenomenon catches the wandering eye and lures one away from the frequented paths of man.

Elliot in E.T. upon discovering a lost alien in the tool shed.

The stakes of the adventure and the Hero's goals become clear. The only question: will he rise to the challenge?

3. Refusal of the Call
In which the Hero digs in their feet.
Great, so the Hero's received their summons. Now they're all set to be whisked off to defeat evil, right?

Not so fast. The Hero might first refuse the call to action. It's risky and there are perils - like spiders, trolls, or perhaps a creepy uncle waiting back at Pride Rock. It's enough to give anyone pause.

In Star Wars, for instance, Luke Skywalker initially refuses to join Obi-Wan on his mission to rescue the princess. It's only when he discovers that his aunt and uncle have been killed by stormtroopers that he changes his mind.

4. Meeting the Mentor
In which the Hero acquires a personal trainer.
The Hero's decided to go on the adventure - but they're not ready to spread their wings yet. They're much too inexperienced at this point and we don't want them to do a fabulous belly-flop off the cliff.

Enter the mentor: someone who helps the Hero, so that they don't make a total fool of themselves (or get themselves killed). The mentor provides practical training, profound wisdom, a kick up the posterior, or something abstract like grit and self-confidence.

Wise old wizards seem to like being mentors. But mentors take many forms, from witches to hermits and suburban karate instructors. They might literally give weapons to prepare for the trials ahead, like Q in the James Bond series. Or perhaps the mentor is an object, such as a map. In all cases, they prepare the Hero for the next step.

5. Crossing the First Threshold
In which the Hero enters the other world in earnest.
Now the Hero is ready - and committed - to the journey. This marks the end of the Departure stage and is when the adventure really kicks into the next gear. As Vogler writes: "This is the moment that the balloon goes up, the ship sails, the romance begins, the wagon gets rolling."

From this point on, there's no turning back.

Like our Hero, you should think of this stage as a checkpoint for your story. Pause and re-assess your bearings before you continue into unfamiliar territory. Have you:

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies
In which the Hero faces new challenges and gets a squad.
When we step into the Special World, we notice a definite shift. The Hero might be discombobulated by this unfamiliar reality and its new rules. This is generally one of the longest stages in the story, as our protagonist gets to grips with this new world.

This makes a prime hunting ground for the series of tests to pass! Luckily, there are many ways for the Hero to get into trouble:

In Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Spencer, Bethany, "Fridge," and Martha get off to a bad start when they bump into a herd of bloodthirsty hippos.

In his first few months at Hogwarts, Harry Potter manages to fight a troll, almost fall from a broomstick and die, and get horribly lost in the Forbidden Forest.

Marlin and Dory encounter three "reformed" sharks, get shocked by jellyfish, and are swallowed by a blue whale en route to finding Nemo.

This stage often expands the cast of characters. Once the protagonist is in the Special World, he will meet allies and enemies - or foes that turn out to be friends and vice versa. He will learn a new set of rules from them. Saloons and seedy bars are popular places for these transactions, as Vogler points out (so long as the Hero survives them).

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave
In which the Hero gets closer to his goal.
This isn't a physical cave. Instead, the "inmost cave" refers to the most dangerous spot in the other realm - whether that's the villain's chambers, the lair of the fearsome dragon, or the Death Star. Almost always, it is where the ultimate goal of the quest is located.

Note that the protagonist hasn't entered the Inmost Cave just yet. This stage is all about the approach to it. It covers all the prep work that's needed in order to defeat the villain.

8. Ordeal
In which the Hero faces his biggest test of all thus far.
Of all the tests the Hero has faced, none have made them hit rock bottom - until now. Vogler describes this phase as a "black moment." Campbell refers to it as the "belly of the whale." Both indicate some grim news for the Hero.

The protagonist must now confront their greatest fear. If they survive it, they will emerge transformed. This is a critical moment in the story, as Vogler explains that it will "inform every decision that the Hero makes from this point forward."

The Ordeal is sometimes not the climax of the story. There's more to come. But you can think of it as the main event of the second act - the one in which the Hero actually earns the title of "Hero."

9. Reward (Seizing the Sword)
In which the Hero sees light at the end of the tunnel.
Our Hero's been through a lot. However, the fruits of their labor are now at hand - if they can just reach out and grab them! The "reward" is the object or knowledge the Hero has fought throughout the entire journey to hold.

Once the protagonist has it in their possession, it generally has greater ramifications for the story. Vogler offers a few examples of it in action:

Luke rescues Princess Leia and captures the plans of the Death Star - keys to defeating Darth Vader.

Dorothy escapes from the Wicked Witch's castle with the broomstick and the ruby slippers - keys to getting back home.

10. The Road Back
In which the light at the end of the tunnel might be a little further than the Hero thought.
The story's not over just yet, as this phase marks the beginning of Act Three. Now that he's seized the reward, the Hero tries to return to the Ordinary World, but more dangers (inconveniently) arise on the road back from the Inmost Cave.

More precisely, the Hero must deal with the consequences and aftermath of the previous act: the dragon, enraged by the Hero who's just stolen a treasure from under his nose, starts the hunt. Or perhaps the opposing army gathers to pursue the Hero across a crowded battlefield. All further obstacles for the Hero, who must face them down before they can return home.

11. Resurrection
In which the last test is met.
Here is the true climax of the story. Everything that happened prior to this stage culminates in a crowning test for the Hero, as the Dark Side gets one last chance to triumph over the Hero.

Vogler refers to this as a "final exam" for the Hero - they must be "tested once more to see if they have really learned the lessons of the Ordeal." It's in this Final Battle that the protagonist goes through one more "resurrection." As a result, this is where you'll get most of your miraculous near-death escapes, à la James Bond's dashing deliverances. If the Hero survives, they can start looking forward to a sweet ending.

12. Return with the Elixir
In which our Hero has a triumphant homecoming.
Finally, the Hero gets to return home. However, they go back a different person than when they started out: they've grown and matured as a result of the journey they've taken.

But we've got to see them bring home the bacon, right? That's why the protagonist must return with the "Elixir," or the prize won during the journey, whether that's an object or knowledge and insight gained.

Of course, it's possible for a story to end on an Elixir-less note - but then the Hero would be doomed to repeat the entire adventure.

Examples of The Hero's Journey in Action

To better understand this story template beyond the typical sword-and-sorcery genre, let's analyze three examples, from both screenplay and literature, and examine how they implement each of the twelve steps.

Rocky

The 1976 film Rocky is acclaimed as one of the most iconic sports films because of Stallone's performance and the heroic journey his character embarks on.

1. Ordinary World. Rocky Balboa is a mediocre boxer and loan collector - just doing his best to live day-to-day in a poor part of Philadelphia.

2. Call to Adventure. Heavyweight champ Apollo Creed decides to make a big fight interesting by giving a no-name loser a chance to challenge him. That loser: Rocky Balboa.

3. Refusal of the Call. Rocky says, "Thanks, but no thanks," given that he has no trainer and is incredibly out of shape.

4. Meeting the Mentor. In steps former boxer Mickey "Mighty Mick" Goldmill, who sees potential in Rocky and starts training him physically and mentally for the fight.

5. Crossing the First Threshold. Rocky crosses the threshold of no return when he accepts the fight on live TV, and 一 in parallel 一 when he crosses the threshold into his love interest Adrian's house and asks her out on a date.

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies. Rocky continues to try and win Adrian over and maintains a dubious friendship with her brother, Paulie, who provides him with raw meat to train with.

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave. The Inmost Cave in Rocky is Rocky's own mind. He fears that he'll never amount to anything - something that he reveals when he butts heads with his trainer, Mickey, in his apartment.

8. Ordeal. The start of the training montage marks the beginning of Rocky's Ordeal. He pushes through it until he glimpses hope ahead while running up the museum steps.

9. Reward (Seizing the Sword). Rocky's reward is the restoration of his self-belief, as he recognizes he can try to "go the distance" with Apollo Creed and prove he's more than "just another bum from the neighborhood."

10. The Road Back. On New Year's Day, the fight takes place. Rocky capitalizes on Creed's overconfidence to start strong, yet Apollo makes a comeback, resulting in a balanced match.

11. Resurrection. The fight inflicts multiple injuries and pushes both men to the brink of exhaustion, with Rocky being knocked down numerous times. But he consistently rises to his feet, enduring through 15 grueling rounds.

12. Return with the Elixir. Rocky loses the fight - but it doesn't matter. He's won back his confidence and he's got Adrian, who tells him that she loves him.

Moving outside of the ring, let's see how this story structure holds on a completely different planet and with a character in complete isolation.

The Martian

In Andy Weir's self-published bestseller (better known for its big screen adaptation) we follow astronaut Mark Watney as he endures the challenges of surviving on Mars and working out a way to get back home.

1. The Ordinary World. Botanist Mark and other astronauts are on a mission on Mars to study the planet and gather samples. They live harmoniously in a structure known as "the Hab."

2. Call to Adventure. The mission is scrapped due to a violent dust storm. As they rush to launch, Mark is flung out of sight and the team believes him to be dead. He is, however, very much alive - stranded on Mars with no way of communicating with anyone back home.

3. Refusal of the Call. With limited supplies and grim odds of survival, Mark concludes that he will likely perish on the desolate planet.

4. Meeting the Mentor. Thanks to his resourcefulness and scientific knowledge he starts to figure out how to survive until the next Mars mission arrives.

5. Crossing the First Threshold. Mark crosses the mental threshold of even trying to survive 一 he successfully creates a greenhouse to cultivate a potato crop, creating a food supply that will last long enough.

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies. Loneliness and other difficulties test his spirit, pushing him to establish contact with Earth and the people at NASA, who devise a plan to help.

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave. Mark faces starvation once again after an explosion destroys his potato crop.

8. Ordeal. A NASA rocket destined to deliver supplies to Mark disintegrates after liftoff and all hope seems lost.

9. Reward (Seizing the Sword). Mark's efforts to survive are rewarded with a new possibility to leave the planet. His team 一 now aware that he's alive 一 defies orders from NASA and heads back to Mars to rescue their comrade.

10. The Road Back. Executing the new plan is immensely difficult 一 Mark has to travel far to locate the spaceship for his escape, and almost dies along the way.

11. Resurrection. Mark is unable to get close enough to his teammates' ship but finds a way to propel himself in empty space towards them, and gets aboard safely.

12. Return with the Elixir. Now a survival instructor for aspiring astronauts, Mark teaches students that space is indifferent and that survival hinges on solving one problem after another, as well as the importance of other people's help.

Coming back to Earth, let's now examine a heroine's journey through the wilderness of the Pacific Crest Trail and her... humanity.

Wild

The memoir Wild narrates the three-month-long hiking adventure of Cheryl Strayed across the Pacific coast, as she grapples with her turbulent past and rediscovers her inner strength.

1. The Ordinary World. Cheryl shares her strong bond with her mother who was her strength during a tough childhood with an abusive father.

2. Call to Adventure. As her mother succumbs to lung cancer, Cheryl faces the heart-wrenching reality to confront life's challenges on her own.

3. Refusal of the Call. Cheryl spirals down into a destructive path of substance abuse and infidelity, which leads to hit rock bottom with a divorce and unwanted pregnancy.

4. Meeting the Mentor. Her best friend Lisa supports her during her darkest time. One day she notices the Pacific Trail guidebook, which gives her hope to find her way back to her inner strength.

5. Crossing the First Threshold. Shequits her job, sells her belongings, and visits her mother's grave before traveling to Mojave, where the trek begins.

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies. Cheryl is tested by her heavy bag, blisters, rattlesnakes, and exhaustion, but many strangers help her along the trail with a warm meal or hiking tips.

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave. AsCheryl goes through particularly tough and snowy parts of the trail her emotional baggage starts to catch up with her.

8. Ordeal. She inadvertently drops one of her shoes off a cliff, and the incident unearths the helplessness she's been evading since her mother's passing.

9. Reward (Seizing the Sword). Cheryl soldiers on, trekking an impressive 50 miles in duct-taped sandals before finally securing a new pair of shoes. This small victory amplifies her self-confidence.

10. The Road Back. On the last stretch, she battles thirst, sketchy hunters, and a storm, but more importantly, she revisits her most poignant and painful memories.

11. Resurrection. Cheryl forgives herself for damaging her marriage and her sense of worth, owning up to her mistakes. A pivotal moment happens at Crater Lake, where she lets go of her frustration at her mother for passing away.

12. Return with the Elixir. Cheryl reaches the Bridge of the Gods and completes the trail. She has found her inner strength and determination for life's next steps.

There are countless other stories that could align with this template, but it's not always the perfect fit. So, let's look into when authors should consider it or not.

When should writers use The Hero's Journey?

The Hero's Journey is just one way to outline a novel and dissect a plot. For more longstanding theories on the topic, you can go this way to read about the ever-popular Three-Act Structure or here to discover Dan Harmon's Story Circle and three more prevalent structures.

So when is it best to use the Hero's Journey? There are a couple of circumstances which might make this a good choice.

When you need more specific story guidance than simple structures can offer

Simply put, the Hero's Journey structure is far more detailed and closely defined than other story structure theories. If you want a fairly specific framework for your work than a thee-act structure, the Hero's Journey can be a great place to start.

Of course, rules are made to be broken. There's plenty of room to play within the confines of the Hero's Journey, despite it appearing fairly prescriptive at first glance. Do you want to experiment with an abbreviated "Resurrection" stage, as J.K. Rowling did in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone? Are you more interested in exploring the journey of an anti-hero? It's all possible.

Once you understand the basics of this universal story structure, you can use and bend it in ways that disrupt reader expectations.

Need more help developing your book? Try this template on for size:

Get our Book Development Template

When your focus is on a single protagonist

No matter how sprawling or epic the world you're writing is, if your story is, at its core, focused on a single character's journey, then this is a good story structure for you. It's kind of in the name! If you're dealing with an entire ensemble, the Hero's Journey may not give you the scope to explore all of your characters' plots and subplot - a broader three-act structure may give you more freedom to weave a greater number story threads. ​​

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Whether you're a reader or writer, we hope our guide has helped you understand this universal story arc. Want to know more about story structure? We explain 6 more in our guide - read on!

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Hero's Journey: Get a Strong Story Structure in 12 Steps

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Learn about the Hero's Journey, the most popular story structure in history, in this master guide. Includes a definitive definition and examples.

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People's article on parent's reactions to children's Moana costumes

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People's article on parent's reactions to children's Moana costumes

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Mom bloggers, Twitter users and more weigh in on whether it's appropriate to dress up as Moana, Disney's first Polynesian princess

Products in this story are independently selected and featured editorially. If you make a purchase using these links we may earn commission.

Disney's inspired millions of little girls and boys to seek adventure and be true to themselves after its fall 2016 release, which saw the film's titular character sing her heart out about how far she would go.

Following her success in restoring the heart of Te Fiti alongside her new demigod friend Maui (and trusty-yet-not-entirely-intelligent rooster Heihei), Moana persuaded her entire village to tap into its voyaging past and take to the seas.

Understandably, many children have flocked to the shelves of Halloween stores, Target, the Disney Store and more to get their hands on Moana costumes and accessories - but there has been some controversy over parents allowing their children to dress up as their favorite Polynesian princess.

After a conversation about cultural appropriation with her 5-year-old daughter last year, writer Sachi Feris published a blog for Raising Race Conscious Children titled "Moana, Elsa, And Halloween" (which went viral at the time) about why she wouldn't let her white daughter dress up as Moana.

"Moana is based on real history and a real group of people ... if we are going to dress up a real person, we have to make sure we are doing it in a way that is respectful. Otherwise, it is like we are making fun of someone else's culture," Feris explained in the blog.

In 2016, her daughter dressed up as Elsa from Disney's 2013 blockbuster , which she felt comfortable with because, as she wrote, "Elsa is an imaginary or made-up character," adding, "A child whose family is Polynesian could dress up using that type of traditional clothing, but Moana's culture is not our culture."

Many readers took to the blog's comments section to praise Feris for her dedication in educating her daughter about different cultures, with one writing, "I admire your perseverance in interacting with your daughter. I realize talking about race and culture is an ongoing deeply important conversation."

Others had a different view. One commenter wrote, "The discouragement of cultural appropriation seems to assume very negative motives. Perhaps dressing up as someone from another culture is motivated by a desire to honor that culture."

Another mused, "I think we have to look at history as the guide. In a country where people dressed in blackface and dressed as 'Indians' who were then shot by cowboys (a sterilized version of the genocide of the Native Americans), we continue with the trauma by dressing up as people of color. I think we have to be clear that this is the distinction: White people cannot dress up as people of color (whether they be real or imaginary) because it invokes the history of and current practice of racial oppression."
RELATED VIDEO: Kim Kardashian West Dressed as Aaliyah for Halloween - and the Internet Is Not Pleased

In a follow-up piece from , the outlet opined that "You can (and should) strive to be better than you were 10, 20 or 30 years ago" in terms of cultural appropriation.

"If you missed the mark when you were younger, maybe think about using this Halloween as an opportunity to teach your kids about the importance of cultural sensitivity," the article read.

"If your child's dream costume feels questionable, don't just throw up your hands and hand over your credit card. You're the parent here, and the onus of what your child wears falls on you. If your kid wears a racist costume ... you're kind of wearing it too."

Twitter users were divided on the subject, with one supporting the claim of cultural appropriation by writing, "I think Moana and Coco are different because 'costumes' of characters from those movies aren't actually costumes. Those are real cultural practices of real people."

Others were on the side of "let kids be kids" like a user who tweeted, "I'm sorry but why is it offensive for anyone to dress up as Moana, she's a Disney princess for Christ sake. If a little girl or boy wants to dress up as their favorite Disney princess then they shouldn't be made to feel like they're in the wrong!"

A third chimed in, "I'm sorry, I hate to be a negative Nancy, but this Moana costume thing is so absurd. I'm a firm believer on respecting culture, and giving them the proper appropriation, but we do not need to be in a world where our kids' imaginations can't flourish."

"This cultural appropriation stuff is getting out of hand," wrote another. "I just read an article pleading adults not to dress their children as Moana. It finished by saying 'the costume is okay I guess but don't use face paint or stick on tattoos or colored body suits' THEY'RE COSTUMES."

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Parents Are Divided on Whether It's Okay to Let Their Kids Dress as Moana for Halloween

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Mom bloggers, Twitter users and more weigh in on whether it's appropriate to dress up as Moana, Disney's first Polynesian princess Products in this story are independently selected and featured editorially. If you make a purchase using these links we may earn commission.

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In this clip, the audience sees that the ocean has magic and has stubborn qualities.

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Moving People to Action - Challenging and Supporting People to do the Most Important Work of their Lives

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The term "archetype" means original pattern in ancient Greek. Jung used the concept of archetype in his theory of the human psyche. He identified 12 universal, mythic characters archetypes reside within our collective unconscious.

Jung defined twelve primary types that represent the range of basic human motivations. Each of us tends to have one dominant archetype that dominates our personality.

1. Ruler

2. Creator/Artist

3. Sage

4. Innocent

5. Explorer

6. Rebel

7. Hero

8. Wizard

9. Jester

10. Everyman

11. Lover

12. Caregiver

What do each of the 12 archetypes seek?

The 4 cardinal orientations that the archetypes are seeking to realise are:

1. Ego - Leave a Mark on the World

2. Order - Provide Structure to the World

3. Social - Connect to others

4. Freedom - Yearn for Paradise

Detailed Description of Desires, Fears and Talents of each of the 12 Archetypes

The Ego Types

1. The Innocent

2. The Everyman

3. The Hero

4. The Caregiver

The Soul Types

5. The Explorer

6. The Rebel

7. The Lover

8. The Creator/Artist

Motto: If you can imagine it, it can be done

Core desire: to create things of enduring value

Goal: to realize a vision

Greatest fear: mediocre vision or execution

Strategy: develop artistic control and skill

Task: to create culture, express own vision

Weakness: perfectionism, bad solutions

Talent: creativity and imagination

The Creator is also known as: The artist, inventor, innovator, musician, writer or dreamer.

The Self Types

9. The Jester

10. The Sage

11. The Magician

12. The Ruler

A Corporate Perspective on Jungian Archetypes

Which well known corporate brands are representative of each of the archetypes?

If you liked this post, you will also like Why Business Leaders Hire Coaches and What is a Story?.
Further Personality Resources

Conor explaining the Big 5 Personality Traits...
What is your dominant archetype? I'd love to hear in the comments below 😉

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Understanding Personality: The 12 Jungian Archetypes - Moving People to Action

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The 12 Jungian Archetypes Ruler The 4 Cardinal Orientations The 4 cardinal orientations that the archetypes are seeking to realise are: Ego - Leave a Mark on the World Order - Provide Structure to the World Social - Connect to others Freedom - Yearn for Paradise The 12 Archetypes in Detail Detailed Description of Desires,

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In the Hero's Journey, this is the threshold stage. Moana is restoring the heart of Te Fiti.

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An article about Disney princesses reimagined in a body positive light

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An article about Disney princesses reimagined in a body positive light

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Last week, the internet was abuzz with images from Wisconsin artist Crystal Walter. She runs Neoglassical art and has been generating interest for her re-interpretation of Disney princesses showing that heroines come in all shapes and sizes.

In a recent piece on Scary Mommy Walter said that her inspiration comes from her own childhood years. She said, "When I was a child, I was fat, and I despised my own body." Walters continues, "I remember at age 12 or 13 having a conversation in a clothing store with my mother where I told her, 'I'm not even human-shaped.' She said knowing that others have similar negative self-talk inspired her to create images combating the lack of representation in popular media.

As Scary Mommy points out, raising girls to feel worthy regardless of "perceived" flaws isn't easy in a society the glamorizes size zero women. Seeing Disney's iconic princesses drawn to represent ALL bodies marks a refreshing change.

Walters told Scary Mommy that the process of creating these images has been therapeutic for her. She said, "Creating art has been extremely helpful during this first half of the year, just keeping a sense of normalcy while everything else was falling apart. The world has changed so much, both in general, and personally since March." Walters continues, "My father passed away in early March, and in the last real conversation we had, he mentioned how proud he was of the work I've been doing. And when I draw these days, it still feels like everything is the way it was... and provides a few hours of peace at a time."

People have been reaching out to Walter to tell her that her drawings have helped them change perceptions of their own self images. She said, It's especially encouraging when I hear about people using my art in school presentations on body image, or hear that parents who follow me show the pictures to their children."

One of the most popular images that we here at MickeyBlog noticed making the rounds last week was one of the princesses all together (see above.) Walters drew them all digitally in only a few hours. However, she goes on to say that it took her about two years to fine-tune her design and make the whole composition come together.

So what's next for Walter? She said that she's interested in fashion and creating clothing that is more size and ability inclusive. In the meantime, you can get the prints above on t-shirts, stickers and home decor on her website.

Readers are encouraged to keep following along with MickeyBlog for more Disney-related news and updates!
Did You Know You Can Plan A Disney Getaway Through Until the Fall of 2021? Don't let Coronavirus put a damper on your Disney plans. Reach out today to get your FREE, no-obligation quote from MickeyTravels Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I'll be on hand to assist you with everything from finding your perfect package to helping you plan lots of special touches to make your visit truly magical. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at mroden@mickeytravels.comor follow along on

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Body Positive Artist Reimagines Disney Princesses - MickeyBlog.com

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Last week, the internet was abuzz with images from Wisconsin artist Crystal Walter. She runs Neoglassical art and has been generating interest for her re-interpretation of Disney princesses showing that heroines come in all shapes and sizes. In a recent piece on Scary Mommy Walter said that her inspiration comes from her own childhood years.

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Allowing Moana to be a role model without cultural appropriation

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Allowing Moana to be a role model without cultural appropriation

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Last year, Disney's Moana told the story of a resourceful, brave, and quick-witted Polynesian princess from the fictionalisland of Motunui. The movie proved to be an instant hit, eventually grossing more than $643 million worldwide.

Now, thousands of girls want to be her-and that's causing quite a stir. In a widely shared essay published on the blog " Raising Race Conscious Children " in September, Sachi Feris, a white mom, shared how she was grappling with her daughter's desire to be Moana on Halloween. At every turn, the decision seemed fraught: Let her be Elsa, and she reinforces notions of white privilege and beauty. But let her dress as Moana, and her daughter unwittingly tokenizes a whole culture. Her daughter ultimately chose to dress as Elsa this year, and Mickey Mouse the next.

The response to Feris's dilemma was rapid fire. Redbook magazine's editors penned a piece titled "Maybe don't dress your kid up as Moana this Halloween," arguing that doing so reinforced "a deeply problematic power dynamic," and that it was on parents to teach kids "not to be racially insensitive." The National Review mocked this argument as " damned if you do, and damned if you don't." More conservative outlets, like The Blaze, used Feris's article as fodder for flaming liberal snowflakes.

I'm sympathetic to this mother's worries. Halloween feels doomed at every stage to be a flashpoint for the debate between sensitivity and free speech. Some schools have gone so far as to drop the name "Halloween" from their vocabularies, instead opting for a "black and orange" day parade, because they worry that allowing children to dress up as characters will inadvertently offend certain racial and ethnic groups.

What's a parent to do? Redbook's editors argue that the right course of action is to stay within your racial lane. "Moana is a really special character to young girls of Polynesian descent who have never seen a Disney Princess who looks like them, just like how Tiana from The Princess and the Frog likely resonated with young Black women who had waited decades to see themselves represented. White girls have plenty of princesses to choose from-there's Belle, Ariel, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty ... you get the idea."

But that impulse is misplaced. Telling your white daughter to not dress as Moana is not only missing the point, it's doing a disservice to the cause you're most likely worried about-cultural and racial acceptance. Instead, it's an opportunity to introduce your kid to cultural sensitivity, as Feris ultimately tries to do. Hopefully, it will help him or her learn how to thoughtfully respond to and empathize with other cultures-so you're not raising kids who think it's ok to throw costume parties featuring blackface and other racist stereotypes.

Kids should have black and brown heroes

Here's a universal fact: Kids like to dress up as their heroes. They pick their idols, most often, from a place of earnest, wide-eyed, adoration. If the world is to grow more racially accepting, it's likely more and more of these heroes won't be white.

When your white child approaches you to dress as Moana, Tiana, or even real-life princess (of pop) Beyonce, she's idolizing a woman of color-that's great. It's a win for slowly toppling white beauty standards and white women as sole emblems of success.

Disney's Aladdin came out in 1992, the year before I was born, but it wasn't until I was well into elementary school that the story, and its princess, started to gain traction among my clique of girlfriends.

I'm South Indian. While Princess Jasmine and I don't come from the same culture, I was enthralled by her story. Disney's telling has earned its fair share of controversy for misrepresenting the original Arabian tale, but seeing a brown princess on screen made me feel beautiful and empowered. Seeing my friends fight to be Jasmine instead of Belle from Beauty and the Beast made me feel validated.

Discouraging your children's impulses, and insisting they stick to white alternatives, misdirects their initial feelings of adoration for a woman of color. Brad Meltzer, a children's book author who has spent decades studying the concept of heroes, believes "heroes are really magic mirrors. Your heroes don't just reflect you; they reveal you." This makes your child's impulse to worship Moana, a girl from a different race and culture, even more worth protecting.

Sure, there are other ways to celebrate idols besides dress-up, but that's precisely what children do: They cut out cardboard boxes and pretend they're the president, hop on their couches and steer their ships, or climb to the top of the stairs and belt " How Far I'll Go." The whole spirit of Halloween is that you can imagine yourself as anyone for a day. For a child, that prospect is especially meaningful.

If your child wants to dress up as Moana, it's worth asking why. If it's because being brown for a day sounds fun, pause, and get ready to talk. But if it's because she's adventurous, kind, and smart-go forth.

Are you dressing as a person or a race?

Talking about race with kids can be excruciating, but research shows it pays off. Children develop a sense of race early on, and can have subconscious associations with certain races by the time they enter primary school. When parents avoid the topic of race, children learn to think of it as taboo.

Your daughter's Halloween costume is a small way to introduce race-and racial sensitivity-to her developing mind. By creating, researching, and putting together your daughter's outfit with her, she can learn how the world sizes up other people who look different from her. You can teach her to see Moana as a person, not a racial caricature, while also modeling respect for her people.

Sociologist and diversity coach Debra Guckenheimer believes the most important thing is to not tell your children "you don't see color." Instead prod and figure out what, for starters, they think of race. Parenting expert Deborah Gilboa asks parents to really listen to their children's answers, even if they are alarming, and rework their preconceived notions from there.

You can show your child that when she hits a complicated racial issue like dressing up as another race, the answer is most definitely not to find comfort in her own racial lane. There's evidence that children automatically act differently towards kids of other races. Lean into your child's instinctual choice, and figure out a way to encourage a respectful affinity to Moana or Tiana (or whomever she seeks to be).

Blackface or brownface will never be ok

If your child does decide to dress as a person of another color, it's worth remembering the obvious stereotypes to avoid. Dressing as Moana isn't racially insensitive-thinking you need to smear yourself in brown makeup or don a tinted skin "suit" in order to authentically represent her, is.

But wait-if this is about celebrating non-white beauty, isn't it ok if my daughter wants to commit to that part of the look too? Not really. Making a costume that includes transforming skin color signals to your child that Moana's skin is akin to the Hulk's green hue, or a fun leopard print: alien and animal. It transitions her original feelings of admiration for a woman of color to believing she can package, put on, and take off, a race.

Disney might agree: it hastily withdrew a costume depicting Maui, a Polynesian demi-god in Moana, in response to uproar over its tinted sleeves.

Recognizing that skin color isn't something most of the world can just shed has helped us shun one of the most racist costume choices of our time: blackface, a practice that dates back to the 1820s. This tradition's "cultural residue is all around us," says Blair L. M. Kelley, an associate professor of history at North Carolina State University, and it's one we should actively talk about, she believes. "Until we actively remember the ugliness of this history, people will continue to blacken their faces without recognizing the horror hidden beneath the paint."

Dress as the character, just the character

But dressing with racial sensitivity isn't just about skin, which is partially why some well-intentioned parents get frustrated and give up. My advice: focus on elements of the costume that feel intimately linked to the character, like Moana's necklace.

Emmaline Matagi, an indigenous Fijian, offers a thorough guide to how non-Polynesian girls can dress as Moana (and the answer isn't "just don't do it!"). She argues that the most important thing is you're visibly dressed as just Moana or Maui, never a vague generalization of Polynesian culture. What this means is that the Disney, K-Mart, warehouse, or pre-packaged costumes of Moana are great (minus any skin sleeves or tattoos)-they clearly replicate the look of the animated Disney character. What's not ok is donning any type of traditional Polynesian garb, trying to recreate Polynesian designs, or in any way, dressing less like Moana, and more like a Polynesian woman.

This may start to feel dicey, and that's ok. Trust your gut-if you choose to create a costume from scratch with your child, notice when it feels like you're treading into replicating ethnic designs, and stop. If you dress your daughter as Disney's Jasmine, are you recreating the bright blue jumpsuit look-or are you putting her in a saree because Jasmine may be Indian?

Hair can get especially tough. The standard Moana outfit includes a long, flowing wig. Do your research-is Moana's hair particular to the Polynesian people? Is the texture of the wig attempting to recreate a type of ethnic hair, or just mimic Moana's? You might not always be sure you made the right call, but doing the research with your daughter, asking these questions out loud, and demonstrating to her how to decide whether something is ok will go far in making her a racially sensitive human.

Matagi reminds us this should be fun. "It's a good idea to teach your children how to respect different cultures and explain to them that whilst it may only be a store-bought costume, it is important to be respectful and understanding of where the costume comes from. You could show them the Pacific on a map or look at some pictures online of traditional Polynesian attire. You could learn how to say hello in different Pacific languages together. Use it as an educational tool while also having fun with it."

When I was five years old, I was intent on being the blond, long-haired Rapunzel for Halloween (This far predated the Disney version, Tangled, so my inspiration came from the classic fairytale books.) My dad visited a costume shop and perused the princess aisle until he spotted a stock package for Rapunzel. Though I was thrilled to be in a flowing, pink dress, I was hyper aware my hair-cropped, black-didn't quite add up to the part.

I ask my dad now if pinning a long, blonde wig to the head of his Indian child made him uncomfortable. "Not in the least," he tells me. "Her hair, well, is kind of the whole story. And you seemed more excited about the length, than the color, anyway."

Even though Rapunzel was a blond, blue-eyed princess, it wasn't her skin color I aspired to. I wanted to be a brave, resourceful princess for a day. The real spirit of Halloween was that I got to.

Stock costume? Check. Hair isn't a racial stereotype but central to the character? Check. My brown self dressed as a white princess? Totally ok.

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Please don't tell your kids they can't dress as Moana this Halloween

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Last year, Disney's Moana told the story of a resourceful, brave, and quick-witted Polynesian princess from the fictionalisland of Motunui. The movie proved to be an instant hit, eventually grossing more than $643 million worldwide. Now, thousands of girls want to be her-and that's causing quite a stir.

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Out of the 25 princesses and iconic Disney characters here, 6 are women of color. Out of those 5, 3 have lighter skin.

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Huffington Post's Article on Moana's Body Positivity

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Huffington Post's Article on Moana's Body Positivity

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With their long limbs and tiny waists, Disney princesses have long been accused of increasing body image issues among girls.

But all that could be set to change with the introduction of the latest Disney heroine, Moana.

The animated 16-year-old, who hits UK screens in December, has a noticeably more realistic figure than her predecessors.

According to her creators, Moana resembles the average teen as they wanted young viewers to identify with her.

Speaking to the Sunday Times, Osnat Shurer, the film's producer, said it was "absolutely" a conscious decision to give Moana a realistic figure.

"We are telling a 'hero's journey' story, so we wanted our hero to be able to be a hero," he said.

"We just felt it was very important for her to be someone we can all identify with... and she's stunningly gorgeous."

Rivkie Baum, editor of plus size magazine Slink, believes the move could help Disney's young viewers learn beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.

"This is an exciting step forward in helping very young girls to see that bodies come in more than one size and a leader doesn't have to be size 0 to succeed," she told The Huffington Post UK.

"Following on from the likes of Barbie diversifying their doll, it feels like toy and youth brands are finally recognising the responsibility they have in shaping young minds and are looking to do so positively."

The comments on Moana's figure follow a study by Brigham Young University in June, which claimed Disney princesses like Elsa, Jasmine and the Little Mermaid harm young girls' self esteem.

"Disney princesses represent some of the first examples of exposure to the thin ideal," Professor Sarah M Coyne said at the time.

"As women, we get it our whole lives, and it really does start at the Disney princess level, at age three and four."

But in a blog, HuffPost UK writer Amy Packham argued that Disney can't be blamed entirely for girls' body image issues.

Instead, she urged parents to prepare their children for the media they'll consume throughout their lives.

"What parents can do is build their child's resilience to be able to cope with such situations, to allow their children to talk positively about body image and how much it varies between women," she said.

"That means ensuring their kids see body image models beyond one source - so dolls of different colours, shapes and sizes, and TV programmes that have a wide range of characters.

"And above all, to understand that while we can't control the media, we can control what goes on in our own homes, and most importantly, how we talk about ourselves."

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Disney Has Finally Created A Heroine With A Realistic Body

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With their long limbs and tiny waists, Disney princesses have long been accused of increasing body image issues among girls. But all that could be set to change with the introduction of the latest Disney heroine, Moana. The animated 16-year-old, who hits UK screens in December, has a noticeably more realistic figure than her predecessors.

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These Disney princesses have long necks, tiny waists, big eyes, and impossibly small wrists. This promotes the idea that women need to be small and skinny.

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Every custom made Hawaiian jewelry is believed to have a hidden meaning pertaining to the ancient time. That is why this Hawaiian Jewelry is well retained by its natives who pass on its significance to the next generations. And, such is the significance of a fish hook necklace also.

Image Courtesy: Living Aloha Creation

The Hawaiian fish hook necklace is commonly known a Makau. As its design suggests, this handmade Hawaiian Jewelry symbolizes a connection between the wearer and the ocean. The jewelry is a symbol of energy, strength, prosperity, abundance, and good luck. Since the ancient Hawaiian livelihood was very much dependent on the ocean waters, so, the fish hook necklace signifies a deep respect and love towards the oceans.

As per the ancient Hawaiian belief, it also signifies that once it is worn, the fish hook becomes a part of the wearer's spirit. Hence, on being handed over to anyone in the wearer's family, it establishes a sacred, spiritual link between the closed ones and bridges the gap between time and distance. Therefore, this handmade heirloom Hawaiian Jewelry forms a very integral part of a family throughout the generations.

Besides, signifying the great reverence of the Hawaiians for the sea/ocean waters, the Hawaiian fishermen, especially anglers, are wearing this fish hook necklace since the ancient times. This signifies the strength and determination that a fisherman needs for a good catch. According to a Hawaiian tradition, the jewelry has sustained and thus, saved many lives in the past by providing a great catch. It is also believed to have fished up many Hawaiian Islands.

Also, Makau is considered to be a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Perhaps, this is the reason why it is worn by captains, mates, and especially travelers to ensure a safe journey. At present, this custom made Hawaiian Jewelry is often gifted as a good luck charm to the travelers, tourists, anglers, and the non-anglers. Many even wear it just as a fancy adornment.

The pendant of the fish hook necklace is carved out of jade, bone or wood. Usually made from the bone of water buffalo, the Hawaiian bone fish hook necklace is also known as carabao. This is most commonly worn by the Hawaiian natives. One of the most cherished features of this handmade Hawaiian Jewelry is that the white in color bone necklace when worn, it will gradually absorb the body's natural oil. And, with time, it develops a honey golden hue. It is believed that the more the pendant absorbs the body oil, the more golden it turns and hence, the greater is its treasure value. What a surreal beauty this Hawaiian Jewelry is!

Similar Link: Handmade Hawaii Jewelry: The Taste Of Allure For A Trendy You!

At present, the fish hook necklace is worn as a beautiful adornment carved out of Koa wood with linings of sterling silver to make it more appealing. Though with the advancement of time, the traditional Hawaiian fish hook necklace has got a bit modern touch in its design and carvings yet it has managed to treasure the ancient Hawaiian meaning behind it. Its significance and purpose still remain the same. Perhaps this has what helped the Hawaiians to keep their Aloha spirit alive.

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Uncovering The Hidden Significance Behind The Hawaiian Fish Hook Necklace

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Every custom made Hawaiian jewelry is believed to have a hidden meaning pertaining to the ancient time. That is why this Hawaiian Jewelry is well retained by its natives who pass on its significance to the next generations. And, such is the significance of a fish hook necklace also.