Mama, the central character in Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use," is a complex and multifaceted woman. Her personality is shaped by her experiences as a Black woman in the rural South, her strong sense of family and tradition, and her quiet but unwavering determination.
Mama's Strength and Resilience
Mama is a woman of immense strength and resilience. She has faced hardship throughout her life, including poverty, racism, and the loss of her husband. Yet, she remains steadfast and independent, managing her farm and raising her daughters with love and discipline.
- Example: Mama's ability to survive and thrive despite the challenges she faces is evident in her statement: "I never minded 'til I had to mind." This shows her acceptance of her circumstances and her willingness to adapt.
Mama's Connection to Tradition and Heritage
Mama deeply values her heritage and traditions. She sees these as a vital part of her identity and a source of strength for her family. She is proud of her simple life and the skills she has learned from her ancestors.
- Example: Mama's attachment to her quilts, which represent generations of family history, is a powerful symbol of her connection to her heritage. She sees them as more than just fabric; they are tangible embodiments of her family's story.
Mama's Love for Her Daughters
Mama's love for her daughters, Maggie and Dee (Wangero), is unwavering and unconditional. However, her love is also tempered by her understanding of their different personalities and choices.
- Example: Mama's disappointment with Dee's rejection of her heritage is evident in her internal monologue. Yet, she still loves her daughter and wants her to be happy.
Mama's Quiet Wisdom
Mama possesses a quiet wisdom that comes from a lifetime of experience. She observes the world around her with a keen eye and makes decisions based on her own values and principles.
- Example: Mama's decision to give the quilts to Maggie rather than Dee demonstrates her understanding of her daughters' true needs and her commitment to family unity.
Mama's Evolution
Mama's personality evolves throughout the story. While she initially appears to be passive and accepting of her circumstances, she ultimately asserts herself and makes a bold decision that reflects her values.
- Example: Mama's act of giving the quilts to Maggie is a powerful statement of her defiance and her commitment to family and heritage.
In conclusion, Mama is a complex and compelling character who embodies the strength, resilience, and wisdom of a generation of Black women in the rural South. Her story is a testament to the enduring power of family, heritage, and love.
External Link: Alice Walker's "Everyday Use"
