Symbolism In The Piano Lesson

“The Piano Lesson” the movie has a lot of symbolisms. The allegory of the movie is the piano itself. First, I thought that the movie was about slavery, pain and sacrifices of Blacks during the time of slavery. But as the movie continues, I understood that the piano itself represents more than just slavery. The theme is about love, pain, memories, family and dignity of ancestors, greed, fear and forgiveness. The allegory of the piano, traces way back from the time it was bought by Charles family. He traded his slaves for the piano for the love of Ofelia. At first, Ofelia was happy and unceasingly played the piano every day, but the longing for her slaves is much stronger than the object. Her effort of taking back her slaves was in vain, the previous owner wouldn’t want to re-trade the slaves. Ofelia is losing her health …show more content…
Alfre Woodard gave justice to Berniece in the movie. She portrayed her role very well. When she finally played the piano, she is like an erupting volcano, releasing all the feelings of pain she kept in her heart especially when her husband was killed. Her hatred towards her brother, Boy Willie, blaming him for her husband’s death. And lastly the memories of her ancestors that surrounds the piano. The aftermath of her emotional outburst was reconciliation and forgiveness not only to her brother but also to herself. In summary, the allegory of the piano in the movie “The Piano Lesson” is love, the love between Sutter and Ofelia, between Ofelia and her servants, Mama Ola’s love to her children, the pain of being away from her children has made her attached to the piano because it was paid by her children’s life. Boy Willie’s greed to sell the piano for a stable future, and finally, Berniece respect to her great