The misconception of self: Illusion vs. Reality

The essay prompt I outlined was questioning how a character's misconception of self related to the theme of the novel. I found that due to Song of Solomon's exploration of identity, this would be an interesting one to write about. Milkman's struggle with identity is key to Morrison's novel. The symbolism of flying is very relevant to issues of identity. Milkman struggles to break away from dependence of Macon II is really the main struggle throughout the novel on an individual level. As he tries to break away and reach his full potential, he is able to fly at Guitar. He does not do this alone however, through all of the differing point of views, Morrison and her characters guide Milkman onto the path of self-discovery. Many examples are in the story, from Robert Smith flying, to Milkman peeing on Lena, and ending with Milkman flying at Guitar, and there are any more throughout. Morrison's general theme of the novel certainly had to do with one's struggle for identity.

Comments

[Hunter S.]

I agree. A lot of the novel is focused around how Milkman breaks away from his father. There is the time when he literally tries to do everything opposite of him after Milkman finds that one leg is longer than the other and as well when he protects his mother in the face of his father's wrath.

[Sarafina A.]

I also saw this as one of the main struggles for Milkman. I found the Dead's family drive to look at beach houses to be a key example of Milkman's isolation from his family. He has to sit backwards unlike anyone else in his family and he is the only one to find the rides a burden. I think that later in the novel Milkman is also torn when he does not agree with the goals of the Seven Days.