Meaning: The quote you've provided is an interesting reflection on the Aztec belief regarding their origin and migration. It is attributed to Jerry Pournelle, a journalist known for his work in science fiction and non-fiction writing. The quote suggests a sense of wonder and curiosity about the Aztec legend, which posits a long and meandering journey of the Aztec people from what is now New Mexico to their eventual settlement in Mexico City.

The Aztecs, also known as the Mexica, were a Mesoamerican culture that flourished in central Mexico in the post-classic period from 1300 to 1521. Their civilization was known for its advanced social, political, and religious organization, as well as for their achievements in art, architecture, and agriculture. The Aztecs were also known for their complex and rich mythology, which included stories of their origins and migration.

The Aztec legend of their migration, as referenced in the quote, is a central part of their mythology. According to this legend, the Aztecs believed that they originated in a place called Aztlan, which is often associated with the modern-day region of northern Mexico or the American Southwest, particularly the area around New Mexico. They believed that they embarked on a long and arduous journey from Aztlan, wandering for thousands of years before reaching their final destination in the Valley of Mexico, where they established the city of Tenochtitlan, which later became Mexico City.

This legend is often referred to as the "Migration Myth" or the "Legend of the Five Suns," and it holds significant cultural and historical importance for the Aztec people. It is important to note that while the legend is regarded as a foundational narrative in Aztec mythology, it is not a historical account in the modern sense. Instead, it serves as a mythological explanation for the origins and historical trajectory of the Aztec people, reflecting their collective identity and worldview.

The belief in the ancient migration from Aztlan to the Valley of Mexico was not unique to the Aztecs. Similar migration myths and origin stories are found in the oral traditions of many indigenous cultures throughout the Americas. These narratives often convey a sense of ancestral connection to the land and provide a framework for understanding the cultural, spiritual, and historical roots of these societies.

From a cultural and anthropological perspective, the Aztec migration myth reflects the deep spiritual and symbolic significance that the journey and the concept of Aztlan held for the Aztec people. It served as a powerful narrative that linked the past, present, and future of their society, reinforcing their sense of collective identity and continuity across generations. The myth also provided a framework for understanding their relationship to the land and the natural world, as well as their place within the broader cosmological order.

In conclusion, the quote by Jerry Pournelle reflects on the intriguing nature of the Aztec legend of their migration from Aztlan to Mexico City. This myth holds a central place in Aztec mythology and serves as a foundational narrative that shapes their cultural and historical consciousness. It is a testament to the enduring power of myth and storytelling in shaping the identity and worldview of ancient civilizations.