Summary of the work - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Short summary - Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison

"Song of Solomon" is a profound novel that delves into the complexities of African-American life in the mid-twentieth century. The book follows the life of Macon "Milkman" Dead, a young man who is searching for his identity and his place in the world. Throughout the novel, Morrison explores themes of family, heritage, love, and the search for identity.

The story begins with Macon's birth and his family's history, tracing back to his great-grandfather, Solomon, who was rumored to have flown away from slavery. Macon grows up in a wealthy African-American family in Michigan, but he feels out of place and disconnected from his family and community.

As Macon sets out on his journey to discover his identity, he encounters a wide range of characters, including his best friend, Guitar, and his lover, Hagar. He also learns about his family's past and the secrets that have been hidden from him.

One of the key moments in the book is when Macon discovers that his father, who he had always believed was dead, is actually alive and living in Virginia. Macon travels to Virginia to meet his father and learn about his family's past. This revelation changes Macon's perspective on his life and his family, and he begins to see the world in a new light.

Throughout the novel, Morrison also explores the experiences of African-Americans in the mid-twentieth century, including the Civil Rights movement and the struggle for equality. She also delves into the impact of slavery and racism on African-American families and communities.

"Song of Solomon" is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that explores the complexities of African-American life and the search for identity. Morrison's powerful prose and vivid characters make this a must-read for anyone interested in African-American literature or the human experience.

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1 - The North

The novel begins with the birth of Macon Dead III, the son of Ruth Foster and Macon Dead II. The chapter provides background information about Macon's family history, including his great-grandfather, Solomon, who was rumored to have flown away from slavery. The chapter also introduces Macon's relationship with his family and his growing sense of disconnection from them.

Chapter 2 - The South

This chapter provides further background information about Macon's family history, focusing on his grandfather, Jake. The chapter also introduces the character of Guitar, who becomes Macon's best friend.

Chapter 3 - Morrison's Magician

This chapter explores the impact of the Civil Rights movement on African-American communities, particularly in the South. The chapter also introduces the character of Pilate, Macon's aunt, who becomes an important figure in Macon's life.

Chapter 4 - The Seven Days

This chapter delves into the history of the Seven Days, a group of African-American men who take justice into their own hands. The chapter also explores the relationship between Macon and Guitar, which becomes strained as Guitar becomes increasingly radicalized.

Chapter 5 - Southside Chicago

This chapter focuses on Macon's relationship with Hagar, who becomes his lover. The chapter also explores the impact of racism and poverty on African-American families in Chicago.

Chapter 6 - Pennsylvania

In this chapter, Macon travels to Pennsylvania to learn more about his family's past. He meets Circe, a woman who tells him about his great-grandfather, Solomon, and his flight from slavery.

Chapter 7 - Elopement

This chapter focuses on Macon's relationship with Hagar, who becomes increasingly desperate as Macon begins to pull away from her. The chapter also explores the impact of gender roles on African-American relationships.

Chapter 8 - Reba

This chapter introduces the character of Reba, Pilate's daughter, and explores her relationship with her mother. The chapter also delves into the impact of slavery on African-American families.

Chapter 9 - Flight

In this chapter, Macon learns that his father, who he had always believed was dead, is actually alive and living in Virginia. Macon travels to Virginia to meet his father and learn about his family's past.

Chapter 10 - Milkman

This chapter focuses on Macon's transformation from a disconnected young man to a more self-aware and compassionate person. The chapter also explores the impact of family and heritage on the search for identity.

Chapter 11 - Solomon's Leap

In the final chapter, Macon discovers the truth about his great-grandfather, Solomon, and his flight from slavery. The chapter also explores the theme of freedom and the power of storytelling.