Over the top of the atomic stitch is the main song line, and
these patterns are recognized holistically by the shaman as the
main identifying characteristic of the corresponding icaro. When
I observed the shamans singing a cloth, they would trace their
index finger along this main song line pattern, the melody
rising or descending in general accordance with the rise and
fall of the line. Again we see the visual metaphor of the
shamanic staircase, represented as a descending song line. Along
the main song line itself and at various points of intersection
along its path, can be seen the beautiful geometric designs
called the floras. These flowers represent turning points where
the song may take a new direction, such as a new verse or
chorus. According to Herlinda, it is also the point where new
life is born into the cosmos. The colors of these flowers have
significance as well, and they are woven in eight colors; black
and white as the base colors of the cloth and primary stitch
patterns; red corresponding with