Clashing Cultures/ Walker And White

Clashing Cultures

There are many similarities when comparing Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use” and Tom white’s “Blue Winds Dancing”. In each story particular ethnic and social behaviors were described by the authors through the characters action and thoughts. Different cultural experiences determined how the conflicts in each story were to be resolved. The main similarity throughout both stories was the conflict of clashing cultures.

In Walker’s, “Everyday Use”, the character Dee adopted the Islamic culture and name Wangero. The character later returns for her African American family reunion. Upon her arrival she asks that a pair of quilts from her grandmother be given to her, not her sister Maggie. Dee claims that her sister will destroy them through “everyday use” as she portrays to be the only one that understands heritage.

In correspondence with Walker’s story, but replaced with Native American culture; Whites “Blue Winds Dancing” also gives detail of a conflict occurring as a result of culture. “Before the lodge door, I stop, afraid, I Wonder-Am I Indian or am I white?” With racing thoughts, questions, and confused minds, the statement, “We just don’t seem to fit anywhere certainly not among whites and not among the older people”. He is unsure which to choose and as a result, doubts himself. This conflict, followed by another if he is not accepted by his choice, leaves him feeling like he belongs to none.

In conclusion, both stories are unique in their use of culture to express a similar conflict of clashing cultures. In each story culture is used to give a unique perspective into other people’s lives and the conflicts they face. Along with details of how cultural upbringing