Everyday Use

Everyday Use is a short story by Alice Walker. Maggie, the protagonist is a shy fearful girl who is always overshadowed by Dee, the antagonist. Maggie is a developing character. She was a fearful little girl who was insecure of herself especially when compared to her sister, but soon was able to look fear in the face a smile a fearless smile. Dee would be a static character. Dee was always seen as beautiful, fearless, and arrogant, and she stays the same throughout the story. Maggie lives in a very rural area and this is the setting of the story. The mother another protagonist faces many conflicts in the story. She struggles with the idea that she is not good enough for her daughter Dee. Being proud of whom you are and where you are from is the theme of the story. Walker uses many metaphors. On page 44 for Maggie is compared to a lame dog. These kind of metaphors enrich the story.

I really enjoyed the story. I was horrified how Dee is ashamed of her family and where she came from. I really enjoyed how the mother stood up for Maggie and realized she was a beautiful girl also. Walker used very powerful language and it took you to their lives. It’s impressive how much knowledge can be seen in such a short story. Maggie will be in my mind for a long time.