Pele and Hiiaka: A Myth From Hawaii

In this richly compiled retelling, listeners are taken into the heart of Hawaiian myth, where the fiery goddess Pele and her sister Hiiaka emerge as central figures of the islands' ancient storytelling tradition. Drawing from newspaper serials, elder testimonies, and the fading oral chants of a bygone generation, the narrator weaves together fragments of oli, mele, and prayer to recreate a mythic tapestry that has long guided Hawaiians’ sense of place and power.

The narrative centers on Pele’s passionate bond with Prince Lohiau of Haena, a romance that ignites both love and conflict, and on Hiiaka’s role as the steadfast companion who follows her sister’s trail across the volcanic landscape. As the tale unfolds, listeners hear the clash of elemental forces, the reverence for the volcano’s creative fury, and the gentle yet determined spirit of Hiiaka, offering a window into a culture where nature and myth are inseparable.