Everyday Use and My Mother Pieced Quilts: Heritage

As humans, we are deeply connected to our past, our roots, and our heritage. Our identity is shaped by the traditions, values, and experiences passed down to us through generations. This theme of heritage and identity is beautifully portrayed in two short stories, "Everyday Use" by Alice Walker and "My Mother Pieced Quilts" by Teresa Palomo Acosta. Both stories delve into the significance of cultural heritage and the struggle to preserve it. This essay will examine the theme of heritage and identity in these two stories, highlighting their similarities and differences, and exploring the profound implications of this theme on individuals and communities.

Body

In both "Everyday Use" and "My Mother Pieced Quilts," the authors emphasize the importance of cultural heritage. For Alice Walker, heritage is not just about objects or artifacts; it is about the connection to one's roots and the understanding of one's place in the world. In "Everyday Use," Mama represents the embodiment of this heritage, as she understands the value of the quilts and intends to pass them down to her daughter, Maggie, who will appreciate and continue the tradition. On the other hand, Dee, Mama's other daughter, sees the quilts as mere artifacts to be displayed and admired without truly understanding their significance.

Teresa Palomo Acosta, in "My Mother Pieced Quilts," explores heritage through the art of quilting. The quilts in the story symbolize the cultural traditions and memories intricately woven into each stitch. The act of quilting becomes a way for the narrator's mother to preserve her Mexican-American identity and pass it on to future generations. The narrator, much like Mama in "Everyday Use," understands the deeper meaning behind these quilts and cherishes them as a tangible link to her heritage.

Both stories also explore the conflict between tradition and modernity, and the challenges faced by individuals in preserving their cultural heritage. In "Everyday Use," the clash between Mama and Dee represents this conflict. Dee, now known as Wangero, has adopted a new name, a new lifestyle, and a new set of values that disregard her African-American heritage. She wants to take the quilts not to continue the tradition, but to display them as art pieces in her modern, "enlightened" home. Mama, however, understands the true value of the quilts and refuses to let them be used as mere decorations.

In "My Mother Pieced Quilts," the conflict arises in the form of generational differences. The narrator's mother, who grew up in a time when quilting was a cherished tradition, struggles to pass on this art to her daughter. The daughter, influenced by the modern world, fails to grasp the importance of quilting and dismisses it as an outdated practice. This conflict highlights the challenges faced by individuals in preserving their cultural heritage in the face of changing times and values.

The theme of heritage and identity in both stories illustrates the power that cultural traditions have in shaping one's sense of self. In "Everyday Use," Mama and Maggie, who have remained connected to their African-American roots, possess a deep understanding of their identity and heritage. The quilts serve as a tangible representation of their history and lineage. In contrast, Dee's rejection of her heritage and her attempt to redefine herself disconnect her from her roots, resulting in an identity crisis.

In "My Mother Pieced Quilts," the narrator's mother finds solace and purpose in quilting. The act of quilting becomes a way for her to express her Mexican-American identity and maintain a connection to her cultural heritage. By preserving and passing down these quilts, she ensures that her family's heritage lives on. The narrator, who recognizes the significance of these quilts, also understands the importance of embracing her cultural identity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both "Everyday Use" and "My Mother Pieced Quilts" highlight the theme of heritage and identity, exploring the significance of cultural traditions and the challenges faced in preserving them. These stories serve as a reminder of the power that heritage holds in shaping our sense of self and understanding our place in the world. By embracing and cherishing our cultural heritage, we not only honor our ancestors but also pave the way for future generations to connect with their roots. The theme of heritage and identity in these stories resonates with readers, urging them to reflect on their own heritage and the role it plays in shaping their lives.