The theme of female empowerment can also be found in Leslie Marmon Silko's short stories. Female characters often take on important roles and show great strength in the face of adversity. Additionally, the theme of cultural hybridity exists, as her characters sometimes have to deal with the mixing of different cultures, both Native American and non - Native American, and find their place within this complex cultural landscape.
A common theme is the struggle for cultural survival. Native American characters in her stories often have to fight against the forces that try to erase their culture. Another theme is the connection to the land. It's deeply ingrained in her stories as the land is seen as a source of identity.