Themes of Acceptance in "Everyday Use" and "A&P"

The concept of acceptance is a universal theme that resonates in various aspects of life and social situations. When people come together, their ideas and opinions can often clash, leading to issues of acceptance. This essay explores the theme of acceptance in Alice Walker's "Everyday Use" and John Updike's "A&P," shedding light on the intricate facets of human nature and relationships.

Acceptance in "Everyday Use"

Alice Walker's "Everyday Use" portrays the issue of acceptance through the strained relationship between Dee and her mother.

The story begins with the mother describing a dream in which she and Dee are reunited on a TV show. In this dream, Dee desires her mother to be different in appearance, envisioning her as "a hundred pounds lighter, my skin like an uncooked barley pancake" (89). This dream illustrates the mother's deep-seated belief that Dee does not accept her for who she is.

Another instance highlighting the acceptance issue is when Dee displays her disdain for their family home.

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The mother anticipates Dee's reaction to their new house, remarking, "no doubt when Dee sees it she will want to tear it down" (90). Dee not only critiques her mother's appearance but also disrespects her way of life and their family home. Dee's departure for college symbolizes her pursuit of a better life, but upon her return, she presents herself differently in both speech and demeanor. She changes her name from Dee to "Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo" (91) and justifies this by saying, "'I couldn't bear it any longer, being named after the people who oppress me'" (92).

This change signifies her rejection of her family and heritage.

Dee's inability to accept her family extends to her younger sister, Maggie. At the story's outset, the narrator describes Maggie's discomfort in Dee's presence, noting that she often stands "hopelessly in corners, [...], eyeing her sister with a mixture of envy and awe" (88). Maggie's discomfort around Dee suggests that Dee's presence creates an atmosphere of tension and unease in their home.

When Dee lays claim to various items in the house, including two quilts that belong to Maggie, the tension escalates. Dee argues that Maggie would not appreciate the quilts and would "be backward enough to put them to everyday use" (94). This assertion underscores Dee's rejection of Maggie's way of life and her disregard for her mother's values, as she insists on displaying these items as art while Maggie and her mother utilize them in their daily lives.

Acceptance in "A&P"

John Updike's "A&P" delves into the theme of acceptance through the lens of the interactions between the three girls in bathing suits and the traditional customers of the grocery store. The customers' inability to accept the girls' attire and actions is immediately evident. The girls' presence in bathing suits disrupts the customers' expectations, causing shock and discomfort. Updike describes the customers' reaction, stating that they "pushing their carts past [the girls] to make sure what they had seen was correct" (16).

The customers, who are accustomed to a routine and familiar shopping environment, are taken aback by the girls' unconventional appearance. Their attire is an affront to the norms of the store, and the traditional customers quickly ostracize the girls, striving to maintain their own shopping routines.

Another dimension of the acceptance issue is reflected in the interaction between the store manager, Lengel, and the girls. Lengel, upholding his managerial role and Sunday school reputation, confronts the girls about their bathing suit attire, declaring, "'this isn't the beach'" (17). His comment causes embarrassment for the girls, particularly Queenie, who blushes in response. In turn, the girls refuse to accept Lengel's reprimand and talk back to him. Queenie retorts, "'we are decent [...]'" (17), showcasing their defiance.

Lengel concludes by instructing the girls to cover their shoulders next time, citing "policy" (17) as the reason. However, the narrator interjects, suggesting that "policy is what the kingpins want. What the others want is juvenile delinquency" (17). This commentary highlights the tension between the girls and Lengel, as the girls defy the established norms represented by Lengel's policy.

Common Threads of Acceptance

While "Everyday Use" and "A&P" have distinct storylines, they both explore the theme of acceptance through different lenses. The narratives present situations that readers can relate to in their own lives, making these stories relatable and thought-provoking.

In "Everyday Use," the issue of acceptance arises within a family dynamic, where Dee's transformation and rejection of her heritage create a rift between her and her mother. The story emphasizes the complexity of acceptance within a familial context, highlighting the challenges and emotional strain it can bring.

On the other hand, "A&P" examines acceptance through the interactions between the girls in bathing suits and the traditional customers of the grocery store. The story underscores the clash between societal norms and individual expression, demonstrating the discomfort and resistance that can arise when individuals challenge established conventions.

Conclusion

Acceptance is a multifaceted theme that finds expression in various forms and contexts. "Everyday Use" and "A&P" provide readers with insights into the complexities of acceptance, whether within a family or within the confines of societal norms. These stories serve as a reminder of the intricate nature of human relationships and the challenges that arise when individuals grapple with acceptance in its many forms.