Song of Solomon

Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison (1977) The life history of Macon “Milkman” Dead, growing up in the Midwest, his family and friends, the Black community he makes his way in, his loves and troubles, and his relationship, in particular, with his friend/nemesis, Guitar. There is so much in this book, it should be several books—but it’s also very entertaining and at times really funny. Much of the story we get through dialogue—long stretches of speech, sometimes—some of these characters are really good talkers. A lot of characters—just their names are a lot to take in—given names, nicknames (like Milkman, saddled with that one due to breastfeeding at an advanced age). Sometimes odd use of Biblical names, and misunderstandings of names. As we follow Milkman through happy and painful situations, we get his family history, his friendships and loves and secrets—we also get a rendering of social structure and class differences within the Black community, conflicts that arise, as well as solidarity. Some of this we get through barbershop conversations, via Milkman—discussing the political climate, horrific events in the air, such as the murder of Emmett Till. Then we are given to understand the philosophy of an avenging secret society that Guitar is part of. This really is a book that will reward you for re-reading—I’ve read it twice, and I feel like I’m still missing large swaths of meaning in its subtlety—and it’s powerful in the way that it can come across as crude and hilarious while simultaneously being sad, deep, and enriched with meaning you can go deeper into, when you’re ready—bottomless, really.

8.22.23