The butter churn in Alice Walker's "Everyday Use" symbolizes the preservation of heritage and tradition. It represents the tangible and intangible aspects of the African American experience that Maggie, the younger daughter, embodies and cherishes.
Here's a closer look at the symbolism:
- Tangible Heritage: The butter churn itself is a physical object passed down through generations, embodying the family's history and connection to their rural past. It represents the hard work and resilience of their ancestors, who relied on such tools for survival.
- Intangible Heritage: The act of churning butter signifies the traditional skills and knowledge passed down through generations, representing the enduring legacy of African American culture. Maggie, who knows how to use the churn, embodies this legacy and understands its importance.
- Contrast with Dee: Dee, the older daughter, rejects the churn, viewing it as outdated and irrelevant to her modern life. This contrasts sharply with Maggie's appreciation for the churn as a symbol of her heritage. Dee's rejection reflects a disconnect from her roots and a desire to distance herself from her family's past.
The butter churn serves as a powerful visual reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the value of tradition. It emphasizes the contrast between Maggie's grounded connection to her roots and Dee's desire to create a new identity that rejects her past.
