The Quilt in "Everyday Use" by Alice: Symbolism and Significance

Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use" explores the theme of heritage and the significance of handmade quilts. The handmade quilts in the story symbolize the connection to one's roots, the preservation of history, and the tension between tradition and progress. This essay will delve into the deeper meaning of the quilts and analyze their symbolic significance within the context of the story. By examining the various references to the quilts throughout the text, we can understand how these objects represent the complexities of family dynamics and cultural identity.

The first mention of the quilts in "Everyday Use" highlights their historical value and the sense of continuity they provide. Mama, the narrator, describes the quilts as "bits and pieces of Grandpa Jarrell's Paisley shirts" (Walker, 1973). This connection to their ancestor emphasizes the quilts' role as a tangible link to the past. Furthermore, the fact that the quilts are made from old clothing suggests the resourcefulness and creativity of the women in the family, who repurpose materials to create something beautiful and meaningful.

Another important aspect of the handmade quilts is their role in preserving family history. Mama mentions that the quilts contain "scraps of dresses Grandma Dee had worn fifty and more years ago" (Walker, 1973). By incorporating these scraps of fabric, the quilts become repositories of memories and stories. They serve as a form of oral history, carrying the narratives of previous generations and allowing future generations to connect with their heritage. Through the quilts, the family's legacy is stitched together, creating a sense of belonging and continuity.

The conflict surrounding the quilts in the story illuminates the tension between tradition and progress. When Dee, Mama's daughter, visits and expresses her desire to take the quilts as decorative pieces, Mama hesitates. She knows that Dee's interest is not rooted in an appreciation for their historical significance but rather in a desire to showcase her African heritage. Mama's reluctance to hand over the quilts symbolizes her resistance to the commodification of her culture and her belief in the importance of preserving traditions that go beyond surface-level aesthetics.

The handmade quilts also represent the diverging paths and values of the two sisters, Dee and Maggie. Dee sees the quilts as valuable artifacts to be displayed, while Maggie views them as practical items to be used in daily life. The quilts become a source of contention between the sisters, reflecting their contrasting attitudes towards their heritage. This conflict highlights the complexity of cultural identity and the different ways in which individuals may interpret and engage with their roots.

In conclusion, the handmade quilts in "Everyday Use" symbolize the connection to one's roots, the preservation of history, and the tension between tradition and progress. These quilts represent the tangible link to the past, serving as a repository of family history and memories. The conflict surrounding the quilts also reflects the complexities of cultural identity and the diverging values within a family. By exploring the symbolism of the quilts, Alice Walker invites readers to reflect on their own relationship with heritage and the significance of preserving traditions. The quilts in "Everyday Use" serve as a reminder that our history and heritage are not mere artifacts to be collected but living narratives that shape our identities.