Everyday Use-Characterization-Walker-2

This short story focus' heavily on the technique of characterization. We are required to know who the characters are, what they are like, what they look like, what their personalities are like, etc. Without the use of this characterization with names and descriptions we could never fully understand the deep meaning of the story. In Everyday Use, Walker uses the description of Maggie to portray a sense of sympathy in the end when Wangero tries to take the quilts. We also see the dramatic change the Dee has gone through by her description as she steps out the car. "A dress so loud it hurts my eyes"(Walker). Dee has gone a dramatic transformation in the sense of who she is and what she looks like. Our first impression of who she has become is signalled with the description of the character with the long beard and stocky stature. We then realize her new style and eloquence with her dress and earrings. However, as earlier started, I believe the description of Maggie and her injuries sustained in the fire really bring to the surface the most emotion. We see a physically hurting, emotionally and mentally pure, kind young child that is looked down upon by her older sister. This aspect the Walker brings to light really allows us to rally on Maggies side when she tries to take the quilts destined for Maggie.