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Names In Toni Morrison's Song Of Solomon

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No matter what angle you perceive identity from; everyone is born with a name. This is a specific name that you are to be called in common acknowledgement. However “the precision of naming takes away from the uniqueness of seeing.” –Pierre Barnard-. Names may promote an individual’s identity, yet it can also defy it. In Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon, multiple characters were given names that convey more context than what meets the eye. They are portrayed in a way that highlights their attributes and personality, and conversely demeanors their identity. The significance of names is sometimes carried through generations. In Song of Solomon names are replicated throughout the Dead Family: Macon Dead (Jr. Sr. III), Ruth Dead, Pilate Dead and so on (18). They’ve gained this name through white’s dismissive attitude towards blacks in the past beginning with Solomon. Dead is an unordinary name. Their last name ironically fortifies …show more content…

What impact does a label have on a mind and soul? Do names carry purpose and the lifestyle you’re ordained to live? There is more to an individual than the couple of letters you refer to them by. The idea of naming deprives those who are being named. In some cases it leads them to ambiguity and to a room with no door and four walls. Milkman seeks to disintegrate his ambiguity and reveal his identity and the history of the ‘Dead.’ On the other hand naming can fortify your identity if it defines your attributes and personality. Names are an important key to what a society values. However what society values aren’t necessarily as important as what the individual values. In fact the inconsideration becomes a concern for the individual and then repetitive. A name used too often by the inconsiderate becomes petty; soon you succumb to wonder of the etymology of your name. In response to the wondering you begin a spiritual journey to answer the questions that revolve in your mind and yearn to discover your

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