The title of the story "Everyday Use" draws its significance from the ethical dilemma and theme of the story. The overarching question that the story asks readers to consider (and answers at the end of the story) is what method is best for honoring one's family heritage. Mama and Maggie believe that the best way to honor one's family heritage is by being an active participant in that heritage. As such, Mama uses the butter...
The title of the story "Everyday Use" draws its significance from the ethical dilemma and theme of the story. The overarching question that the story asks readers to consider (and answers at the end of the story) is what method is best for honoring one's family heritage. Mama and Maggie believe that the best way to honor one's family heritage is by being an active participant in that heritage. As such, Mama uses the butter churn that was once whittled by an uncle, and both Mama and Maggie still quilt just like the women in the family before them. They believe that cultural artifacts should be put to "everyday use," not put on display like art. Dee, the story's antagonist, believes that using these items will ruin their value. At this point, the reader is challenged to consider whether preservation or "everyday use" is the better option. The story, however, implicitly answers this question when at the end, Dee drives off in a cloud of dust, while Mama and Maggie sit back and smile, suggesting that "everyday use" is how we best honor our family's heritage.
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