Introduction
“Everyday Use”, a captivating short story penned by Alice Walker, is a narrative that delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, heritage, and the concept of home. The setting plays a crucial role in the story, as it is set in the rural South during the Civil Rights movement, a period marked by racial tension and the struggle for equality. The story revolves around two contrasting sisters, Dee and Maggie, and their mother, exploring the contrasting perceptions they hold toward their heritage. This essay aims to analyze the underlying themes of heritage, identity, and home, as portrayed by Walker in “Everyday Use.”
Heritage
Walker’s exquisite narrative subtly underscores the tension between the two sisters’ contrasting views on their heritage. Dee, who has received a formal education, sees heritage as a relic of the past, something to be admired and showcased. Her request to possess the family quilts, intended to hang them as showpieces, exemplifies this view.
On the other hand, Maggie, who is uneducated and naive, perceives heritage as a living entity to be used and experienced in everyday life (Eder). Her understanding of the family quilts as objects of utility and comfort reflects this perception. Walker uses this contrast to critique the superficial knowledge of heritage that can arise from a disconnected, intellectual approach, as embodied by Dee.
Identity
Walker also explores the theme of identity through Dee’s character. Dee’s decision to change her name to Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo, a more ‘African’ name, exemplifies her struggle to connect with her roots. However, her mother’s remark that she was named after her aunt, who was named after her grandmother, underscores her disconnect with her immediate family and culture.
Home
The concept of home is another significant theme in “Everyday Use.” For Mama and Maggie, their home is a place of comfort and familiarity, deeply intertwined with their daily experiences and memories. For Dee, however, it is a reminder of her impoverished past, which she seeks to distance herself from.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use” offers a profound exploration of heritage, identity, and the concept of home. It challenges the reader to consider the true meaning of these concepts and their role in shaping individual and collective identities. Walker’s portrayal of these themes through her vivid characters invites the reader to reflect on their understanding and appreciation of their heritage and identity.
Work Cited
Eder, Martin. Alice Walker’s Short Story “Everyday Use.” GRIN Verlag, 2014.