Motif

Motifs. Motifs are recurring structures, contrasts, or literary devices that can help to develop and inform the text’s major themes.

In the past few chapters of Song of Solomon, songs have played a key role. As Milkman wanders in Shalimar, he listens to a couple of children singing a song. This song serves as a connection between Milkman and his forgotten past, his unknown family history. In the past, songs served as a way to educate in the sense that many people were illiterate and stories through the form of songs were the way to learn. Hearing this song in the present is a hint that songs capture the past. For Milkman, songs have played a large role in discovering family heritage. Pilate songs about Sugarman is another instance that stimulates Milkman’s expedition to Virginia. Other than Milkman, other family members use songs to heal themselves emotionally and mentally.

Along with songs, biblical allusions are significant throughout the entire book. The book is based off of biblical figures, who have exceeded cultural limitations. Many characters are given a names and background events to match with age-old themes. For example, Hagar was Sarah’s handmaiden, who bore Abraham (Sarah’s husband) a son. After, Hagar was banished from Abraham’s sight. On the same coin, Milkman uses Hagar to his desires and pleasures, but never gives the relationship a name, and instead leaves her when he feels fulfilled. Both the men prove to be cold-hearted, selfish individuals who push women below themselves. Milkman’s true value for Hagar is to be determined until the end of the book.

 

The quote is a description of Milkman finding himself. (self-identity)