Though storytelling and art are strong through lines in Na’vi culture, there is none a more personal or sacred tradition than the Songcord. As they journey through life, from youth to death, each Na’vi individual creates and maintains a woven, beaded cord. When memorable milestones of life are reached, such as a triumphant hunt, a first love, a fierce battle, or the loss of a loved one, a new bead is selected and woven into the cord. Together, these beads form a tactile narrative of the owner’s life.

Accompanying the physical cord is a song which recounts each bead and the moment that birthed it. The song is traditional and ancient, with consistent rules dictating melody, rhythm and verbal composition. However, only the individual owner and those closest to them will understand the meaning of each bead and thus, how to sing their Songcord.

For the Na’vi, Songcords are equally a record of the past and the hope for a future. An unfinished Songcord represents the potential of a life to shape the future of a family or clan. Conversely, a Songcord which has reached its final bead may be sung by those who loved them the most in mourning or remembrance.