The novel is needed by African-Americans now in a way that it was not needed before – and it is following along the lines of the function of novels everywhere. We don‘t live in places where we can hear those stories anymore; parents don‘t sit around and tell their children those classical, mythological, archetypal stories that we heard years ago. But new information has got to get out, and there are several ways to do it. One is the novel.
With this statement Toni Morrison clearly suggests the function of her novel Song of Solomon. That is, on the one hand, the preservation of traditional Afro-American folktales and on the other hand their adaptation to contemporary times. Realizing this double function, it is very challenging to make the analysis of the mythological character of the novel the topic of a seminar paper. Song of Solomon is spiritually grounded in the folktale “People who could fly”, an Afro-American folktale, which depicts the escape of a community of slaves by taking flight. Therefore I will center my analysis on the motif of “flight” in the novel, presenting different ways of interpretation. First of all, I will point out the function of myth in Song of Solomon. In the third chapter I will concentrate on the folktale “People who could fly”, comparing it with Toni Morrison’s narration about Solomon. Being the focal point of this seminar paper, the discussion of the motif of “flight” follows in the fourth part. It deals with the connection between the motif of “flight”, which turns up time and again in Milkman’s life, and Milkman’s search for his identity. Moreover I will point out Pilate’s role in Milkman’s quest for his cultural heritage. The last chapter contains a discussion of the different modes of “flight” and their significance.
Table of Contents
I. INTRODUCTION
II. THE FUNCTION OF MYTHOLOGY IN SONG OF SOLOMON
III. THE MOTIF OF “FLIGHT” IN THE FOLKTALES OF THE
“FLYING AFRICANS”
1. “FLIGHT” AS A COMMUNAL ESCAPE IN “PEOPLE WHO COULD FLY”
2. “FLIGHT” AS A SOLITARY ESCAPE IN TONI MORRISON’S UPDATED
VERSION
IV. THE MOTIF OF “FLIGHT” IN SONG OF SOLOMON
1. MILKMAN DEAD`S WISH FOR FLIGHT
2. MILKMAN’S INAUTHENTICITY
3. PILATE, THE PILOT
4. MILKMAN’S AUTHENTIC IDENTITY
V. DIFFERENT MODES OF “FLIGHT”
1. MILKMAN’S FLIGHT
2. PILATE, THE SUGARGIRL
VI. CONCLUSION
Objectives and Themes
The primary objective of this seminar paper is to analyze the motif of "flight" in Toni Morrison’s novel Song of Solomon as a central symbol of cultural identity, while exploring the tension between individualistic escape and communal responsibility.
- The function of mythology as a link between traditional Afro-American folktales and contemporary life.
- The dichotomy between communal escape in original folktales and the individualistic interpretation in Morrison’s novel.
- The significance of the protagonist’s, Milkman Dead’s, journey toward discovering his authentic identity.
- The role of the character Pilate as a mentor and "pilot" in Milkman’s transition to self-actualization.
Excerpt from the Book
2. “Flight” as a Solitary Escape in Toni Morrison’s Updated Version
The mythical background of the novel Song of Solomon is the tale of Solomon, who possesses the powers of flight. His escape from slavery is described in an heroic manner in a blues song, which finally will contain the story of Milkman Dead’s ancestors.
Toni Morrison‘s new version of the Flying African in Song of Solomon sharply contrasts with the traditional folktale. Whereas “flight” in Lester’s narration has a “communally beneficial” character, its nature in Song of Solomon is very individualistic. In the updated folktale Solomon escapes from slavery by flying away. But in contrast to the young witch doctor in Lester’s version, Solomon does not share his knowledge with his tribe. He flies away, leaving his mate and his twenty-one children behind. His effort to transport his son Jake with him fails. In Michael Awkward’s opinion, who examines the nature of Solomon’s solitary flight in his essay “Unruly and Let Loose,” this failure “serves to emphasize the ultimately individualistic nature of the mythic figure’s flight.” Herbert W. Rice characterizes Solomon’s flight as an act of “selfishness,” because Solomon seeks freedom only for himself. He abandons his family, leaving the responsibility for his offspring to his mate Ryna. However, aggrieved by her loss, Ryna goes mad and is unable to care for her children.
Summary of Chapters
I. INTRODUCTION: This chapter outlines the dual purpose of the novel: the preservation of traditional Afro-American folklore and its adaptation to the contemporary world.
II. THE FUNCTION OF MYTHOLOGY IN SONG OF SOLOMON: This section examines the concept of myth as a vehicle for maintaining cultural values and ensuring their relevance for new generations.
III. THE MOTIF OF “FLIGHT” IN THE FOLKTALES OF THE “FLYING AFRICANS”: This chapter contrasts the communal nature of "flight" in the traditional folktale with the individualized, often selfish, version portrayed in Morrison's novel.
IV. THE MOTIF OF “FLIGHT” IN SONG OF SOLOMON: This part focuses on how the recurring imagery of flight shapes Milkman Dead’s personal journey and his eventual search for an authentic identity.
V. DIFFERENT MODES OF “FLIGHT”: This chapter differentiates between various interpretations of flight, specifically comparing Milkman's path of liberation with Pilate's "community ethic" of staying grounded.
VI. CONCLUSION: The final chapter synthesizes the findings, confirming that one cannot attain a true identity without embracing one's cultural heritage and roots.
Keywords
Song of Solomon, Toni Morrison, Flying African, Mythology, Folklore, Identity, Milkman Dead, Pilate, Flight Motif, Cultural Heritage, Individualism, Community, Social Responsibility, Literary Analysis, African American Literature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this paper?
The paper explores the metaphorical and mythological significance of the "flight" motif in Toni Morrison's Song of Solomon, specifically how it relates to the protagonist's development.
What are the central thematic fields addressed?
Key themes include cultural identity, the contrast between communal and individualistic survival, the function of myth in literature, and the importance of ancestral heritage.
What is the main goal or research question?
The research examines how Morrison transforms the traditional "Flying African" folktale into a modern narrative that defines the protagonist’s quest for an authentic self.
Which scientific methodology is used?
The author employs a comparative literary analysis, contrasting traditional folktale versions of flight with the specific narrative context provided in Song of Solomon.
What is discussed in the main body of the text?
The analysis covers the function of myth, the comparison of flight between traditional and updated narratives, Milkman’s search for identity, and the distinct roles of the characters Milkman and Pilate.
Which keywords characterize the work?
The work is defined by terms such as identity, mythology, cultural heritage, individualism, and the "flight" motif.
How does the author interpret the white peacock symbol?
The author views the white peacock as a symbol of the protagonist’s unregenerated state, illustrating how materialistic values and Western cultural baggage inhibit his ability to truly "fly" or find his identity.
Why is Pilate considered the "pilot" of the narrative?
Pilate serves as the "pilot" because she acts as the guardian of cultural and familial lore, guiding Milkman through his past and enabling him to transition from an inauthentic existence to an authentic connection with his roots.
- Quote paper
- Daniela Grosche (Author), 2003, Mythology in Toni Morrison's Song of Solomon: The motif of "flight", Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/32351
