–How is the theme of maternity explored in the story? Give at least two examples.
–Morrison adds issues of class to what is already a complicated story about race. Why? Where in the story do you see evidence of this?
–What is the meaning of Morrison’s title, Recitatif? How does it work as a title for this story?
–What are Twyla and Roberta fighting about in the section about school busing? What’s going on between them?
–Is the story’s perspective on race relations ultimately pessimistic or optimistic? Why?
–Why do you think Morrison chooses not to be explicit about which girl is African American and which girl is Caucasian?
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Why do you think Morrison chooses not to be explicit about which girl is African American and which girl is Caucasian?
I think that Morrison is trying to play against the assumptions that readers that might make based on the characters actions. It disregards any stereotypes that the reader may have in assuming which girl is african american and which one is caucasian. Through doing this she keeps the reader wondering who’s who and an element of uncertainty because now you do not have that expectation.
How is the theme of maternity explored in the story? Give at least two examples.
The theme of maternity is explored through Twyla and Roberta’s mothers. Twyla’s mother visits her in the orphanage, but she doesn’t even supply her with food nor gifts; Roberta’s mother supports Roberta and reads her the bible to give her wisdom/knowledge. When Twyla and Roberta have a conversation about Maggie in comparison to their mothers, they describe Maggie as deaf. Twyla views her mother as someone who struggles with communication and accountability as opposed to Roberta recalling her mother growing up in an orphanage/institution just like Maggie.