Everyday Use By Alice Walker Analysis

The story of “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker provides insight into the value and meaning of home, family, and heritage. At the beginning of the story, Mama describes the yard, in which she and Maggie, her youngest, are waiting in to receive her eldest daughter, Dee who is returning for a visit. This yard is an extension of their home; clean and comfortable. It doesn’t appear to be much, but Mama takes care of it, nonetheless. It has value for Mama and Maggie, unlike Dee, who wrote her once that she would always come to visit but never brings friends. Dee does not have an attachment to her home, and views it as an embarrassment. During the visit, Dee snaps a photo of the home as though she is documenting the history without emotion. Mama did not have much in life, but wanted Dee to have a good …show more content…
She loves both her daughters, but knows that Maggie is more like her. She can see both daughters for exactly who they are. Maggie is scarred physically and emotionally from a house fire, whereas, Mama is scarred from a life of hard work and discrimination. Dee’s education allows her to achieve more in life than was ever possible for Mama. While Dee has learned many things about her ancestors and their heritage, she views it as a trophy to be displayed. Mama and Maggie, on the other hand, are living their heritage. The custom of quilting, with materials that were lived in and used by their family, was passed down to Maggie. Use of the items made or worn, by the family, has an emotional meaning for Mama and Maggie. Mama knows that family traditions will be carried on through Maggie and not Dee. Mama even fantasizes that she could be more like the mother that Dee would be proud of, but accepts the fact that things are the way they are