Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison

Introduction

“Song of Solomon” is a novel written by the renowned African-American author, Toni Morrison. Published in 1977, the book is a potent exploration of African-American identity, heritage, and the power of names. It is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of Macon “Milkman” Dead III, from birth to adulthood, as he embarks on a journey to understand his roots and find his place in the world. The novel is set against the backdrop of the mid-20th century America, a time of racial tension and social change.

Review

“Song of Solomon” is a rich tapestry of characters, themes, and narratives that intertwine to create a compelling story about the African-American experience. The novel is divided into two parts. The first part is set in an unnamed city in Michigan, where Milkman grows up in a wealthy black family, detached from the struggles of the black community. The second part of the novel takes Milkman to the South, where he uncovers his family history and gains a deeper understanding of his heritage.

The novel is filled with vivid and memorable characters, each with their own stories and struggles. From Milkman’s father, Macon Dead II, a ruthless property owner, to his eccentric aunt Pilate, who lives on the fringes of society, each character adds depth and complexity to the narrative. The women in the novel, in particular, are portrayed with strength and resilience, providing a stark contrast to Milkman’s initial selfishness and immaturity.

Morrison’s prose is lyrical and evocative, filled with rich metaphors and symbolism. The title of the novel itself is a reference to the biblical Song of Solomon, hinting at the themes of love, death, and transcendence that run throughout the book. The narrative is non-linear, with frequent flashbacks and shifts in perspective, which adds to the complexity and depth of the story.

Analysis

“Song of Solomon” is a profound exploration of identity, heritage, and the power of names. Throughout the novel, Morrison emphasizes the importance of names as a link to one’s history and identity. This is evident in the character of Milkman, who gains a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world through the discovery of his family history.

The novel also explores the theme of flight, both literal and metaphorical. The opening scene of the novel, in which a man attempts to fly off a rooftop, sets the stage for this recurring motif. For Milkman, the idea of flight represents freedom and escape from his privileged but unfulfilling life. However, as he uncovers his family history, he realizes that flight also has a darker side, symbolizing abandonment and escape from responsibility.

The novel also delves into the racial and social tensions of mid-20th century America. Through the experiences of Milkman and other characters, Morrison paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced by African-Americans during this period. The novel also critiques the materialism and greed that characterized the American Dream, as embodied by the character of Macon Dead II.

About the Author

Toni Morrison was an American novelist, essayist, editor, and professor. Born in 1931 in Lorain, Ohio, she was the second of four children in a working-class, African-American family. She studied humanities at Howard and Cornell Universities, followed by an academic career at Texas Southern University, Howard University, Yale, and since 1989, a chair at Princeton University.

Morrison’s works are known for their epic themes, vivid dialogue, and richly detailed African-American characters. Among her best-known novels are “The Bluest Eye”, “Sula”, “Song of Solomon”, and “Beloved”. She won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993, making her the first African-American woman to be selected for the award. Morrison’s writing is celebrated for its lyrical prose, complex characters, and profound exploration of the African-American experience. She passed away in 2019, leaving behind a powerful literary legacy.