Singing

In the Song of Solomon, we frequently encounter singing.  Morrison introduces the motif of singing in the very first chapter with the “O Sugarman” song and continues to use it to recall memories of Pilate’s father telling her to “Sing.”   The presence of song helps the characters in the novel connect to their roots and to each other.  Later in the novel, songs will serve the purpose of helping Milkman grow and find himself.

Songs are commonly used to share stories and history of the previous Dead generations. Singing, however, takes on a slightly different meaning when Circe reveals to Milkman that “Sing Dead” was the name of Pilate’s mother.  Pilate used to recall her father saying “Sing. Sing,” in which she always interpreted as singing aloud to “relieve her gloom” (147).  This helps Milkman begin to discover his ancestry, which in turn will propel Milkman on his spiritual journey of self discovery and “coming of age.”  With the knowledge and understanding of his past that he gained through song, Milkman will be able to move forward and grow to find himself.

Songs not only connect different generations by telling stories, but they also help characters of the same generation create a spiritual bond.  For example, after Hagar dies, Pilate and Reba console each other through singing.  By singing as a means of comforting, they become closer.

Milkman has not quite finished his journey to self discovery yet, and I’m curious to see how singing and songs influence his choices throughout the rest of the novel.