THE SEARCH FOR ESSENCE OF THE SELF: A CRITICAL STUDY OF TONI MORISON’S SONG OF SOLOMON

Abstract

The present study sheds light on the philosophical approach adopted by Toni Morrison in portraying the main characters in Song of Solomon. It examines the philosophical dimension of Toni Morrison. It is that dimension that is concerned with man’s existence and being. Existentialism is a philosophical as well as a literary school of thought that is mainly concerned with individual freedom and responsibility as two aspects of man’s meaningful existence. The study provides a textual analysis of the novel in question .In Song of Solomon Morrison presents Milkman and Pilate in situations with different paths to follow. Here, the endeavor of both characters to chart the paths of their lives and their attempts to overcome obstacles will be examined in large to highlight the existential aspect in the novel under discussion. Here, the novelist’s approach will be examined in terms of her ability at weaving the prevailing social and cultural circumstances of the protagonist in different communities. The study also explores Milkman’s refusal to be controlled by the traditional codes and his willingness to adapt to the the requirements of his new being. In short, the study goes deep into the approach adopted by the writer also to examine aunt Piate’s capability at making existentially free choices and demonstrating full responsibility for the consequences of such choices. The study will highlight the two characters own concepts of self and the perspective from which every one of them looks upon the surrounding community, its values and its social norms.