Unraveling the Meaning: Exploring the Symbolism of Quilts in Everyday Use

Quilts have long been a beloved form of art and storytelling, passed down through generations and treasured as heirlooms. But in Alice Walker’s acclaimed short story, “Everyday Use,” quilts take on a deeper meaning – one that reflects the complex dynamics of family, heritage, and cultural identity. In this article, we will delve into the symbolism behind the quilts in “Everyday Use” and explore how they serve as a powerful portrayal of the characters’ values and beliefs. Whether you’re a fan of literature or simply intrigued by the art of quilting, join us on this journey to uncover the significance of these beautiful creations in Walker’s poignant tale. So let’s ask ourselves: what do the quilts truly represent in “Everyday Use”?

The Craft of Quilting

Quilting, the process of sewing together multiple layers of fabric to create a thicker, padded material, has been a traditional form of textile art for centuries. Originating as a practical means to provide warmth and insulation, it has evolved into a creative expression and cultural tradition in many parts of the world. Quilts are often made with intricate patterns and designs, and can be found in various forms such as bed coverings, wall hangings, or clothing.

The craft of quilting requires skillful hands and attention to detail. It involves cutting and piecing together various types and colors of fabric to form a quilt top. This top is then layered with batting (a soft filling) and backing fabric before being stitched together through a process called quilting. Quilting can be done by hand or by using specialized sewing machines.

Symbolism in Quilts

Quilts hold deep significance beyond their practical use as bed coverings. They often serve as repositories of family history, cultural traditions, personal memories, and artistic expressions. Throughout history, different cultures have used quilts as a way to tell stories or convey messages through the use of symbols.

In many cultures, quilts are considered precious heirlooms that are passed down from generation to generation. They may contain fabrics from old clothing or other sentimental items that hold memories and meanings for the family. Additionally, specific quilt patterns may hold symbolic meaning within a particular community or culture.

The Importance of Quilts in African-American Culture

In African-American culture specifically, quilts hold immense importance as they have been used as both functional objects and powerful forms of artistic expression. During slavery in the United States, enslaved African Americans were not allowed to read or write; therefore, they had no means to document their histories or preserve their cultural traditions. Quilting became a way for African-American women to preserve and pass down their stories, beliefs, and values.

Quilts were also used as tools for communication during the time of slavery. Enslaved individuals would use specific quilt patterns to signal messages to others, such as indicating safe houses along the Underground Railroad or sending warnings of danger. These quilts, called “freedom quilts,” held immense importance in the fight against slavery.

The Role of Quilts in Alice Walker’s ‘Everyday Use’

Alice Walker’s short story ‘Everyday Use’ explores the tension between African-American culture and mainstream American culture through the eyes of an African-American family. The character of Dee, who has embraced her heritage and changed her name to Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo, claims that her family’s quilts are priceless cultural artifacts that should be displayed rather than used. On the other hand, her mother Maggie views these quilts as practical items that hold memories and traditions.

Through this conflict over the quilts, Walker highlights the struggles faced by many African Americans in preserving their cultural identity in a society that often diminishes or appropriates it. Dee’s desire to possess these quilts without acknowledging their true meaning reveals her detachment from her own culture.

Interpreting the Symbols in ‘Everyday Use’ Quilts

The two main quilts featured in ‘Everyday Use’ are made up of different pieces of clothing worn by Dee’s ancestors. The first quilt is made up of scraps from family members’ old aprons, while the second one contains pieces from Civil War uniforms worn by a great-grandfather.

On one hand, Dee views these quilts purely as artifacts or decorations; however, they hold deeper meanings for Maggie and her mother. The scraps used in each quilt represent not only practicality but also struggles faced by their ancestors. The different patterns and fabrics also showcase the diversity within African-American culture.

Overall, the quilts in ‘Everyday Use’ symbolize the complexity and richness of African-American heritage. They represent not only practicality and creativity but also the resilience and strength of African-Americans in preserving their history and cultural identity despite societal challenges.

Understanding the Symbolism of Quilts in Everyday Use

Quilts have been a part of human history for centuries, serving both functional and artistic purposes. However, in Alice Walker’s short story “Everyday Use,” quilts take on a deeper meaning, symbolizing the very essence of family heritage and tradition. Each character in the story has their own interpretation of what the quilts represent, adding layers of symbolism and complexity to an otherwise simple household item. In this article, we will delve deeper into the significance of quilts in “Everyday Use” and understand their role in shaping the characters’ identities and relationships.

The Importance of Quilts in African American Culture

To fully unravel the symbolism behind quilts in “Everyday Use,” it is crucial to first understand their cultural significance in the lives of African Americans. Historically, quilting has been an essential part of black culture – a tangible representation of stories and memories passed down from generation to generation. Before written records existed, African American women used intricate quilt patterns to tell stories, document their experiences, and preserve their history. Quilting also served as a form of creative expression for enslaved individuals who were otherwise denied a voice. Through quilting, they could express their emotions and personal beliefs covertly.

The Quilt as a Connection to Family Heritage

In “Everyday Use,” Dee/Wangero is adamant about taking possession of her grandmother’s handmade quilts, which she sees as priceless artifacts – too precious to be used as intended by her mother and sister. Dee believes that owning these heirlooms gives her a sense of connection to her African roots and symbolizes her struggle for independence from her modest upbringing.

On the other hand, Mama (the narrator) understands that these quilts are more than just pretty pieces of fabric but also serve as a reminder of her ancestors’ struggles and sacrifices. As the matriarch of the family, Mama is aware of the significance of passing down these quilts from generation to generation and keeping their history alive. She sees them as a way to honor and preserve her family’s heritage, highlighting the importance of quilts as a symbol of cultural identity and belonging.

Quilts as a Representation of Personal Identity

The two sisters in “Everyday Use” have vastly different attitudes towards their family’s quilts, reflecting their contrasting personalities. While Dee/Wangero sees them as valuable pieces of history that elevate her status, Maggie (the younger sister) sees them as practical items meant for everyday use. Maggie has learned how to quilt from her grandmother, making her more connected to the process and appreciative of its value. In contrast, Dee/Wangero was too preoccupied with distancing herself from her humble beginnings to learn this skill.

The conflicting perspectives on the quilts also symbolize the sisters’ relationship with their past. Dee/Wangero rejects her African American heritage, while Maggie embraces it wholeheartedly. For Dee/Wangero, possessing the quilts signifies a break from her roots, whereas for Maggie, they are an extension of herself – an essential part of her identity.

Quilts as a Reflection of Social Inequality

Another layer to consider when examining the symbolism of quilts in “Everyday Use” is socio-economic class and social inequality. The story takes place during a time when many African Americans were struggling to break free from systemic oppression and poverty. The handmade quilts represent years of hard work and thriftiness – traits that were necessary for survival during this era.

Dee’s desire to display these quilts instead of using them for warmth or practical purposes is seen as frivolous by Mama, who is aware that buying new fabric was a luxury that the family could not afford. Moreover, Dee’s disregard for her family’s struggles and her obsession with presenting a false image of herself emphasize the gap between her own reality and the lives of her ancestors. Through the quilts, Walker highlights the consequence of social inequality – the breaking of familial ties and loss of cultural heritage.

In Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use,” quilts serve as powerful symbols of cultural identity, family heritage, personal values, and social inequality. Through these intricate pieces, Walker reminds us of the vital role that quilting plays in preserving African American history and traditions. The quilts’ significance in this story goes far beyond their aesthetic value but holds a deeper meaning for each character, making them an integral part of the narrative. As with many literary works, “Everyday Use” prompts readers to reflect on their own relationships with material possessions and heritage and encourages us to appreciate our own cultural identity.

Q: What do the quilts symbolize in Everyday Use?
A: The quilts symbolize heritage, identity, and family tradition.

Q: How do the quilts represent heritage?
A: The quilts are made from scraps of old clothes worn by ancestors, passed down from generation to generation, and represent the history of their family.

Q: What is the significance of the quilts in Everyday Use?
A: The quilts hold deeper meaning beyond their physical appearance and serve as a link to the past and a connection between family members.

Q: Why are the quilts important to Mama and Maggie?
A: Mama and Maggie have a strong sentimental attachment to the quilts as they have been handed down from their ancestors and hold memories of their loved ones.

Q: How does Dee’s attitude towards the quilts differ from Mama and Maggie’s?
A: Dee sees the quilts as fashionable decorations while Mama and Maggie see them as practical items with cultural significance.

Q: What does Dee’s desire to take the quilts home represent?
A: Dee’s desire to take the quilts represents her attempt at reclaiming her African heritage by owning something that she sees as valuable.

In conclusion, the quilts in “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker serve as powerful symbols that represent various themes and messages within the story. Through their physical appearance and history, they embody the importance of cultural heritage, ancestral pride, and the struggle for identity in African-American communities. Maggie and Mama’s connection to the quilts reflects their appreciation for tradition and their rejection of Dee’s materialistic views. The quilts also serve as a metaphor for the bond between generations and the passing down of knowledge and values. Overall, the quilts hold immense significance in portraying the complexities of African-American identity and highlight how different individuals interpret their heritage and culture. They also showcase how material objects can hold deep emotional connections and memories that transcend time. Ultimately, “Everyday Use” serves as a poignant reminder to embrace our past, honor our culture, and value our individual identities.

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.