Bittersweet Novel

Morrison exposes the complexity of a reality in which extraordinary events take place. Ambiguity is the basis for Song of Solomon’s being. We can see this through the troubled behavior of Hagar,Macon III, Milkman.

Hagar loves Milkman desperately, creating a conflict between love and hatred. Her constant disposition for Milkman later on becomes and obsessive behavior that leads to aggressiveness. Thus, proving how ambiguity within a character is notable in the novel.

Morrison juxtaposes the inner conflicts of these characters throughout the novel. Macon III seems to have a strong character, where ambition and insecurity coexist at different levels.

-Nerve

An example of Macon's nerve is the agressive and merciless manner in which he hits his wife.

-Fear

“He didn’t like to look at them in this light…”

The scenario’s description mentions ghosts and how Macon III is afraid of looking around him. Not only a physical event but also a figurative aspect. It’s a metaphor for Macon III’s fear to open-up and confront reality.

Milkman is the most contradictory character. In his search for purpose he starts of as an immature man and finally reaches maturity.

-Immaturity

“The decision he made would be extremely important, but the way in which he made the decision would be careless, haphazard, and uninformed.” ( pg 69-70)

This quote reflects Milkman’s behavior at the beginning of the novel. He is aware of the importance of things but he is not conscious of his actions. His ideas and actions conflict and show his immature facet.

-Maturity

“Breathless, he reached for his cigarettes and found them soaked. He lay back on the grass and let the high sunshine warm him. He opened his mouth so the clear air could bathe his tongue.” (pg 240)

This physical cleansing or purging is also figurative. Milkman is becoming aware of how his actions are the bases of his future. He is know conscious that he must act in accordance to reflection. The whole description of the setting alludes to Paradise.

“He was only his breath, coming slower now, and his thoughts. The rest of him had disappeared. So the thoughts came, unobstructed by other people, by things, even by the sight of himself.” (pg 277)

This metaphysical experience shows Milkman’s formation to be almost completed. He overcomes outside distractions and obstacles and realizes that he himself, was one impediment to reach his purpose in life.

This metaphysical experience shows Milkman’s formation to be almost completed. He overcomes outside distractions and obstacles and realizes that he himself was one impediment to reach his purpose in life.

Song of Solomon is juxtaposition within juxtapositions. It deals with metacognition since it is a Bildungsroman novel. We are ale to see Milkman’s path to maturity as we as readers follow this formative journey. Within Morrison’s narrative opposites interact in harmony such as fantasy and reality.