Everyday Use

     Everyday Use shows the cost and the value in embracing an old heritage and a new identity.  Both viewpoints can have benefits and both can be expensive to hold on to.  Mrs. Johnson and Maggie seemed to be content with the status quo and the simplicity of their lives.  Perhaps there is a comfortable, but distorted familiarity with the traditions they have grown accustomed to.  This mindset may keep them living in the bubble they are in and not further expand their horizons.  However, even though they are not educated, there is a homespun type of wisdom that is gained only through their generational ties.  Nevertheless, who is to dictate what makes one person feel whole and complete.  The inheritance of the family quilts and of the heritage finally brings a real smile to Maggie.

     Wangero/Dee and Asalamalakim seem to represent the opposite end of this spectrum.  They do not want to be associated with their birth names because they are tied into the oppression their ancestors endured.  However, inasmuch as Dee wants to be Wangero, she still craves the quilt and mementos of her previous life.  She sees value in not remaining where she came from and encourages her sister "to make something of herself...".  Nevertheless, her new identity is tied into her past.  Without her past as a reference point, there is no new beginning.  I wonder if her inner tug of war, identity crisis will continue to plague her.

     Their is a price for change and a price for remaining the same.  If the value of something exceeds the cost, then there's a deficit.  In the end, we all have to live with the results or consequences of our decisions.

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