Song of Solomon
The novel Song of Solomon has several recurring themes,including that of sexuality. Morrison effectivelydemonstrates these sexual themes relating to both sexes.Unlike in her other novels, both the men and women are"searching for love, for valid sexual encounters, and aboveall, for a sense that they are worthy."(Bakerman 318) WhileSong of Solomon gives men a more prominent place, Morrisonalso shows the desires of women to break away fromestablished society and to create an individualistic life. Pilate is one of the most apparent characters in herjourney to explore her sexuality and womanhood. She isportrayed by Morrison as a strong and a somewhat rebelliouswoman. She establishes something extraordinary during thattime, economic independence. In the process "she rejects thetraditional image of woman by cutting off her hair...andwearing clothes functional to her way of life."(Mickelson316) Even though this is all true, Morrison never lets usforget that Pilate is a woman planted in the reality ofblack society. Ruth also yearns to escape the shackles thathold her down as a married woman. In the opening
Morrison subtlyconveys different lessons and morals with these themesthrough names, symbols, etc. We learn thatHer husband never loved her and they haven't been intimatein years. " Milkman is avidly searching for a womanand a sense of security, and as opposed to the women, hissearch is surprisingly successful. " (Morrison 16) As she dealt with the rejection ofher husband, Ruth searched for sexual satisfactionelsewhere, eventually turning to her son, Milkman. "Everybody who knewhim knew about Hagar, but she was considered his privatehoney pot, not a real or legitimate girlfriend- not someonehe might marry. Ultimately, this novel dealswith initiation and exploration in society. scenes ofthe novel, Ruth shows us her trivial concerns dealing with astain on the table. The audience neverquestions Milkman's ability to love, yet we see the problemshe has recognizing it. " (Morrison 13) Ruth recognizedthat the breastfeeding was wrong, but let her desire cloudher better judgement.
Common topics in this essay:
Song Solomon,
Ruth Guitar,
song solomon,
sexual themes,
hagar considered,
,
|
Acceptance Essays
