Authorial Craft in Alice Walker’s Everyday Use

Introduction to Walker’s Craft

Alice Walker’s short story “Everyday Use” is a striking exploration of heritage, identity, and the complex relationships within families. At first glance, it might seem like a simple narrative about a mother and her two daughters, but as we delve deeper into the text, we realize that Walker’s authorial craft plays a pivotal role in conveying profound themes. Through her characters, imagery, and narrative structure, Walker masterfully crafts a tale that resonates with readers on multiple levels.

Character Development and Symbolism

One of the most compelling aspects of “Everyday Use” is how Walker develops her characters to reflect contrasting perspectives on heritage. The protagonist, Mama (whose real name is never revealed), serves as the narrator of the story. Her voice is powerful yet unrefined; she speaks with authenticity that allows readers to connect with her immediately. Mama embodies traditional values and emphasizes practicality in her daily life. Her character contrasts sharply with Dee, her daughter who has returned home after gaining an education and adopting a more radical sense of identity.

Dee’s transformation symbolizes the complexities of cultural appropriation versus genuine appreciation for one’s roots. She changes her name to Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo in an effort to reclaim her African heritage. However, this act raises questions about authenticity—does simply changing one’s name equate to an understanding or respect for one’s culture? Through Dee’s character arc, Walker invites readers to consider what it truly means to honor one’s lineage.

The Role of Imagery

Walker employs rich imagery throughout “Everyday Use,” which helps bring these themes to life vividly. From descriptions of Mama’s yard—a space filled with tangible reminders of their family history—to the quilts that become central symbols in the story, every detail contributes meaningfully to our understanding of heritage.

The quilts themselves are perhaps the most significant symbol in “Everyday Use.” Crafted by generations of women in Mama’s family from scraps of clothing worn by ancestors, they represent not just artistic skill but also familial love and memory. When Dee claims she wants them for display rather than practical use—a choice grounded in aesthetic rather than emotional value—Mama experiences a revelation about what these items represent versus what they mean when they are used daily.

Narrative Structure and Point of View

The narrative structure also plays a vital role in enhancing Walker’s themes. Told from Mama’s first-person perspective, we get an intimate glimpse into her thoughts and feelings regarding both daughters’ views on their heritage. This choice allows readers not only to sympathize with Mama but also exposes us to societal tensions surrounding race and identity during this period—especially through Dee’s educated yet somewhat superficial understanding of culture.

Moreover, by using direct dialogue among characters mixed with Mama’s reflective inner monologues, Walker establishes dynamic interactions that drive home key conflicts within family dynamics relating back to cultural identity. This style engages readers actively as they piece together motives behind each character’s actions while simultaneously grappling with larger societal issues at play.

Thematic Depth: Heritage vs. Identity