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Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use,” published in 1973, is a powerful short story that explores the complexities of heritage, identity, and the Black American experience
. Set in the rural South during the 1960s, the narrative revolves around a family reunion between a mother and her two daughters, Dee and Maggie. The story unfolds as the characters grapple with their differing perspectives on their cultural roots and the meaning of heritage.Walker skillfully weaves themes of cultural appropriation and the clash between traditional and modern values through the characters' interactions. Dee, who has embraced her African heritage and changed her name to Wangero, desires to claim family heirlooms for their artistic value, while her sister Maggie values the items for their practical use and sentimental worth. The quilts crafted by their grandmother become a focal point, symbolizing the family’s history and the divergent paths the sisters have taken.
Today, “Everyday Use” is celebrated for its exploration of the Black American experience and the impact of the Black Arts Movement on identity. The story resonates with themes of cultural pride, familial bonds, and the significance of understanding and preserving one's heritage.
Read the full story summary, an in-depth character analysis of Mama, and explanations of important quotes from “Everyday Use.”
