The mythic patterns Toni Morrison explores in her third novel inform the transformation of
Milkman Dead .
Song of Solomon
traces Milkman’s journey from spiritual death to understanding and acceptance of personal responsibility, his liberation symbolized by his discovery of the ability to fly. Caught between his father’s materialism and his aunt’s sense of family and history, Milkman moves to a greater awareness of his identity and previously untapped spiritual power. This new collection of full-length critical essays plumbs the depths of Morrison’s rich exploration of the challenges of entering adulthood. Complete with an introductory essay by literary scholar Harold Bloom, this study guide also features a chronology, a bibliography, an index, and notes about the contributors.