Symbolism in Alice Walker's "Everyday Use": a Deep Dive

Introduction

Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use" is a rich narrative that explores the complexities of heritage, identity, and the African American experience. Through the interactions of a rural family, Walker delves into how heritage and culture are perceived and valued. The story is replete with symbolism, which serves to underscore the central themes and provide deeper insight into the characters' motivations and conflicts. This essay aims to analyze the key symbols within "Everyday Use" and explain how they contribute to the overall message of the story.

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One of the most prominent symbols in "Everyday Use" is the family quilts. These quilts are more than mere bed coverings; they represent the family's heritage and the continuity of tradition. Hand-stitched by the family's matriarchs, the quilts embody the skills, artistry, and history passed down through generations. Dee, who has changed her name to Wangero to reflect her African roots, views the quilts as valuable artifacts of cultural heritage. She wants to hang them on the wall as a testament to her newfound identity. However, for her mother and sister Maggie, the quilts are functional items imbued with personal and familial significance. Maggie, who learned quilting from her grandmother, understands the practical value of the quilts and sees them as a living part of her daily life. This contrast highlights the differing perspectives on heritage: Dee's more superficial, aesthetic appreciation versus Maggie's deep, intrinsic connection.

Another significant symbol is Dee's new name, Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo. By adopting this name, Dee attempts to reclaim her African heritage and distance herself from her immediate family's history, which she associates with oppression and ignorance. However, this change is met with skepticism by her mother and sister, who see it as an affectation rather than a genuine connection to her roots. The name change symbolizes Dee's struggle with her identity and her attempt to construct a new self-image that aligns with her intellectual and political awakening. Yet, it also underscores her disconnection from her family's lived experience and the everyday reality of their existence.

The butter churn top is another symbol that enriches the story's exploration of heritage and utility. Dee desires the churn top as a decorative piece, valuing it for its aesthetic appeal rather than its functionality. In contrast, her mother and Maggie see the churn top as a practical tool used in their daily lives. This difference in perception underscores the thematic tension between utilitarian and aesthetic values. For Dee, the churn top represents a cultural artifact to be admired, while for her mother and Maggie, it is a symbol of their labor and domestic life.

The house itself serves as a symbol of the family's history and resilience. Constructed by the hands of family members, the house stands as a testament to their hard work and endurance. Dee's disdain for the house and her desire to distance herself from it reflect her rejection of her immediate past and her aspiration for a different life. In contrast, her mother and Maggie's attachment to the house symbolizes their acceptance and pride in their heritage. The house, with its humble but sturdy structure, embodies the family's strength and continuity.

Finally, the burn scars on Maggie's arms serve as a potent symbol of suffering and survival. These scars are a physical manifestation of the family's hardships and Maggie's personal resilience. Unlike Dee, who seeks to erase and redefine her past, Maggie carries her history on her skin. The scars represent the indelible imprint of experience and the strength derived from overcoming adversity. Maggie's quiet strength and acceptance of her scars contrast sharply with Dee's more performative approach to heritage, highlighting the different ways individuals relate to their past.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rich symbolism in Alice Walker's "Everyday Use" serves to deepen the reader's understanding of the characters and the central themes of heritage, identity, and cultural value. Through symbols like the quilts, Dee's new name, the butter churn top, the house, and Maggie's scars, Walker explores the complexities of how heritage is perceived and valued. These symbols not only enrich the narrative but also invite readers to reflect on their own relationships with their cultural and familial legacies. Ultimately, "Everyday Use" challenges us to consider what it means to truly honor and preserve our heritage in our everyday lives.