The quilts are valuable to Dee because she sees them as pieces of art and a symbol of her African heritage. Dee values them for their aesthetic appeal and historical significance. On the other hand, the quilts are valuable to Maggie because they represent a connection to her family and the tradition of quilt-making passed down through generations. Maggie values them for their sentimental and comforting aspects.
Mama was initially hesitant and skeptical of Dee's sudden interest in the family heirlooms, but ultimately gave them to Maggie as she believed she would appreciate and use them more than Dee.
Dee, who I am assuming is either a large llilyputian (From Gulliver's Travels), a small midget, or a baby, is very short. Dee is only 37cm tall, which is equal to 0.37 meters. That equals only 14.5669291 inches. Wow.
Pee-Dee Belemnite.
Dee shares her mother's determination and strong will. Both women are fiercely independent and have a clear sense of self.
The next tidal bore on the River Dee in Flintshire is dependant on the tide cycle and specific conditions. It is advised to consult a tidal bore prediction chart or local authorities for the most accurate information.
Maggie would likely use the quilts as intended, to keep warm and for practical everyday use. Dee, on the other hand, may view the quilts as valuable artifacts to be displayed or viewed as art rather than for their practical function.
quilts
She takes the quilts from Dee and gives them to Maggie. In the story, "Everyday Use," Dee and Maggie had a conflict over the quilts. Mama resolved the conflict by taking the quilts from Dee and giving them to Maggie, who would love them, use them and hand them down to the next generation.
Dee believes that Maggie should not have the quilts because she feels that Maggie will not appreciate or understand their cultural and historical significance. Dee sees herself as being more deserving of the quilts because she is the one who is interested in preserving their heritage and using them as art pieces.
They are both ugly like you
Two old quilts
the quilts Apex
Maggie gets the quilts at the end of the story. Dee wants them as well, but Mama decides to give them to Maggie instead because she understands the sentimental value they hold for her.
the two old quilts packed away in the trunk
The mother ultimately decides to give the quilts to Maggie because she recognizes Maggie's deep appreciation for their heritage and the family's history. Unlike Dee, who views the quilts as mere artifacts for display, Maggie understands their sentimental value and the stories they carry. The mother's choice reflects her desire to preserve the family's legacy and ensure that the quilts are cherished and used, rather than objectified. This decision signifies a shift toward valuing genuine connection over superficiality.
In Alice Walker's "Everyday Use," the quilts symbolize cultural heritage and personal identity. For Dee, the quilts represent a link to her African roots and a means to showcase her heritage as art, detached from their practical use. In contrast, for Maggie, the quilts embody a deep familial connection and the memories of her ancestors, serving as a tangible reminder of her upbringing and the love within her family. This difference highlights their contrasting views on heritage: Dee seeks to claim it as a status symbol, while Maggie values it as a living part of her life.
Dee wants the quilts to display in her home as a proud representation of her heritage. However, if it were not a fashionable thing, Dee would not even want the quilts, so in a way it is also a fashion statement more than about her need to capture her heritage.