ABSTRACT
On first consideration, anthropological research among one’s own people promises much of the certainty and ease of a tender voyage home. After all, the indigenous researcher knows the geographic terrain, the linguistic code, and the social rules. African American anthropologist John Gwaltney attests to the general willingness on the part of potential subjects to assist in the research of a native investigator: Anthropology was seen as a job; a means to privileged status and many people made their contribution to the author's field project with the specific end of assisting the advancement of a native career. Without doubt, virtually all of the women whom the author interviewed were willing to contribute to a member’s professional development. In her study of the interaction of women in rap discussion groups, Susan Kalcik recognized a type of narrative sequencing or serializing wherein various participants in conversation would string together any number of personal anecdotes.
