The story begins in a yard that feels like an extended living room for the narrator and her daughter Maggie.
Characters
Narrator/Mama: Describes herself as a large, big-boned woman with rough, man-working hands. Dreams of being thin and glamorous like on TV.
Maggie: Narrator's younger daughter, shy, nervous, scarred from a house fire.
Dee (Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo): Narrator's older daughter, confident, changed her name to reject oppression.
Hakim-a-barber: Dee's companion, possibly her husband, doesn't eat certain traditional foods, embraces some doctrines from a nearby community.
Plot Summary
Introduction
Mama waits in the yard with Maggie for Dee's visit.
Narrator dreams of a TV show reunion with Dee.
Describes her own physical strength and simple life.
Dee was always determined and different.
Dee's Arrival
Dee arrives with Hakim-a-barber, sporting a new name and appearance.
She takes photos of her family and the house.
Dee informs Mama she's changed her name and explains her reasons.
Family Dynamics
The tension between Dee and the family is clear; Dee has a different worldview.
Dee's desire for family heirlooms (quilts and churn) becomes a point of contention.
Dee believes Maggie doesn't appreciate the quilts' value.
Conclusion
Mama ultimately decides to give the quilts to Maggie, recognizing Maggie's connection to their heritage.
Dee criticizes their way of life and leaves, suggesting they don't understand their heritage.
Maggie and Mama return to their peaceful life.
Themes
Heritage and Identity: The story explores the different ways the characters understand and connect with their heritage.
Change vs. Tradition: Dee represents change and a break from tradition, while Mama and Maggie embody traditional values and ways of life.
Family and Conflict: The story highlights the tensions and dynamics within a family, especially between siblings with different outlooks.
Symbolism
Quilts: Represent family heritage and the differing perceptions of its value.
The Yard: Symbolizes comfort, history, and the family's connection to their home.
Important Quotes
Dee: "I couldn't bear it any longer, being named after the people who oppress me."
Mama: "I did something I never done before: hugged Maggie to me, then snatched the quilts out of Miss Wangero's hands and dumped them into Maggie's lap."