Song of Solomon, Toni Morrison

Historical and Cultural Context

Toni Morrison's Song of Solomon takes us on a journey through a transformative period of American history, exploring the cultural and social landscape that shaped the African American experience. The novel is set against the backdrop of momentous events that stretched from the Great Depression through the Civil Rights Movement, into the rise of the Black Power ethos. Each page is a canvas that vividly portrays the collective struggles and triumphs of Black Americans fighting against the tides of systemic racism and seeking to reclaim their identity and agency.

The narrative gives life to the profound significance of names within the Black community. Names in Morrison's tale are more than mere labels; they're a celebration of heritage, a way to honor the past and carry forward the legacy of the community's heroes and milestones. Through this, Morrison tells a story of identity and belonging that resonates deeply with her readers, reminding us of the rich tapestry of stories that are enshrined in the names we hold dear.

Morrison doesn't shy away from the intricate gender dynamics within the Black community. The novel reflects on the complexities of male-female relationships, set against the broader context of racial oppression. It explores the inner conflicts and challenges faced by Black women, who confront not only societal racism but also the struggle for equality within their own community. Morrison's characters embody these tensions, offering a nuanced exploration of gender and power.

Song of Solomon is a narrative of transformation from a world bereft of compassion to one that begins to embrace mercy. Morrison takes us from the starkness of a merciless society to the dawn of understanding and forgiveness. This transition is more than a plot device; it's emblematic of the human capacity for growth and redemption. The novel becomes a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring quest for compassion in a world that often seems devoid of it.

Questions

1. In which time period is Song of Solomon set?

A. 1920s-1950s

B. 1930s-1960s

C. 1940s-1970s

D. 1950s-1980s

2. What does the novel primarily explore through its narrative?

A. Science fiction themes

B. The American Dream

C. African American historical and cultural experiences

D. The Great American Novel

3. What is the significance of names in Song of Solomon?

A. They depict geographic locations.

B. They are used to honor heritage and history.

C. They are just traditional family names.

D. They symbolise wealth.

4. How does Song of Solomon address gender dynamics?

A. By focusing on women's suffrage.

B. Through the portrayal of male-female relationships within the Black community.

C. By ignoring gender issues.

D. Through a futuristic perspective on gender. 

Discussion

How might the title Song of Solomon connect to the themes of identity and heritage?

Further reading

1. Berkman, Anne Elizabeth. The Quest for Authenticity: The Novels of Toni Morrison. UMI, 1987. Berkman explores the complexities of identity and self in Morrison's novels.

2. Carmean, Karen. Toni Morrison’s World of Fiction. Whitson Publishing Company, 1993. Carmean explores the thematic elements and narrative techniques in Morrison's literary works.

3. Conner, Marc C. The Aesthetics of Toni Morrison: Speaking the Unspeakable. University Press of Mississippi, 2000. Conner examines the intricate artistry of Morrison's prose and storytelling methods.

4. David, Ron. Toni Morrison Explained: A Reader's Road Map to the Novels. Random House, 2000. David offers insights and guidance for readers navigating the complex worlds of Morrison's novels.

5. Kubitschek, Missy Dehn. Toni Morrison: A Critical Companion. Greenwood Press, 1988. Kubitschek provides critical analysis and context for understanding Morrison's body of work.

6. Matus, Jill. Toni Morrison. St. Martin’s Press, 1998. Matus discusses the cultural and political dimensions present in Morrison's novels.

7. McKay, Nellie Y., and Kathryn Earle, eds. Approaches to Teaching the Novels of Toni Morrison. The Modern Language Association of America, 1997. This edited collection presents diverse strategies for teaching Morrison's novels in the classroom.

8. Peach, Linden. Toni Morrison. St. Martin’s Press, 2000. Peach explores the narrative structures and themes across Morrison's literary creations.

9. Smith, Valerie, ed. New Essays on Song of Solomon. Cambridge University Press, 1995. This collection offers new perspectives and critical essays on Morrison's Song of Solomon. 

10. Sumana, K. The Novels of Toni Morrison: A Study in Race, Gender, and Class. Sangam Books, 1998. Sumana analyzes the interplay of race, gender, and class within Morrison's novels.