Everyday Use by Alice Walker Summary

In Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use," the author explores the complex themes of heritage, identity, and the clash between traditional and modern values. Through the experiences of a rural African-American family, Walker delves into the significance of cultural artifacts and the ways in which they can define a person's sense of self. In this essay, we will delve into the summary of "Everyday Use," examining the key elements of the story and the profound insights it offers.

The Tale of Two Sisters

The tale revolves around the central conflict between two sisters, Maggie and Dee, and their differing perceptions of their shared heritage. Maggie, the younger sister, is depicted as shy and reserved, while Dee embodies a more cosmopolitan and assertive persona. The story takes place in the rural South, where the family lives in a modest home, surrounded by poverty and hardship. Despite their challenging circumstances, the family takes pride in their heritage, which is symbolized by their prized possessions, such as quilts handmade by their ancestors.

Conflicting Attitudes Toward Heritage

The story begins with the arrival of Dee, who has recently changed her name to Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo, embracing her African roots. Dee's visit is met with mixed emotions, as her family is both excited and apprehensive about her return. Dee, who has become educated and adopted a more modern worldview, identifies herself with the African culture, rejecting her Southern upbringing and the traditions associated with it.

Throughout the story, Walker skillfully employs vivid imagery and symbolism to highlight the conflicting attitudes toward heritage. The quilts, for instance, serve as a powerful symbol of the family's history and connection to their ancestors. These quilts are made from scraps of clothing worn by loved ones, and each stitch represents a story, a memory, and a bond. While Maggie and her mother, Mama, view the quilts as practical items to be used and cherished, Dee sees them as artifacts to be displayed and admired. For Dee, the quilts have become mere artifacts of her African heritage, divorced from their intimate connection to the family's personal history.

A Climax of Tension

The climax of the story occurs when Dee demands to take the quilts with her, intending to hang them on a wall as a decorative piece. This request incites tension between Dee and Mama, who feels a deep sense of attachment to the quilts. Mama, recognizing the significance of these quilts as a link to her ancestry, decides to give them to Maggie, the sister who truly understands and appreciates their value.

A Critique of Cultural Appropriation

Walker's masterful storytelling not only captures the complexities of family dynamics but also explores the broader themes of cultural identity and the commodification of heritage. Through the character of Dee, Walker critiques the tendency to view cultural artifacts as empty symbols to be appropriated and displayed for personal gain. In contrast, Maggie serves as a representation of a more authentic and grounded appreciation for one's heritage, recognizing the value of these artifacts not only as objects but also as a connection to the past.

Reflections on Heritage and Identity

"Everyday Use" provides a thought-provoking exploration of the ways in which heritage shapes our sense of self and the conflicts that can arise when different interpretations of that heritage collide. Walker challenges us to reflect on our own relationship with our cultural roots and the significance we assign to the objects that embody our history. By drawing attention to the importance of personal connection and understanding, she reminds us that true appreciation of heritage lies not in possession but in the recognition of its intrinsic value.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, "Everyday Use" by Alice Walker is a captivating and illuminating tale that delves into the complexities of heritage, identity, and the clash between traditional and modern values. Through the experiences of the characters, Walker imparts profound insights into the significance of cultural artifacts and the ways in which they shape our sense of self. By examining this summary of "Everyday Use," we have gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the story's themes, leaving us inspired to reflect on our own relationship with our heritage and the objects that embody it.