Summary on Everyday Use

The short story Everyday Use by Alice Walker illustrates the two different concepts of culture and heritage in the characters of Dee and Maggie. In this story, Dee understands the valued culture and heritage as an artistic appeal. However, Maggie represents a simple, content way of life where culture and heritage are personal significance.

In this story, Dee, who renamed herself Wangero Leewanika Kemajo, refuses to be called Dee. She states, I couldn't accept it any longer, being entitled after the persons who oppress me. This shows that Dee is ashamed of her heritage. Even though her mother points ...