Blog 6

Blog 6 - Theme ----- Racism obviously plays a part in the theme of the book. Feminism is also a huge part though. The fact that August and the Boatwright sisters are black, just adds to the fact that they are women living on their own. August has found a way to be black, be a woman, and still be respected in the community. The fact that she has accomplished all of this is amazing. Feminism is evident in that most of the main characters are women, of different ages and races. One of the major male figures, T. Ray, is seen as oppressive to both black people and women of any race. T. Ray makes many comments to Lily about her being weak and needing to grow up. Lily's mother also plays a huge role in her life, even though she is dead. She has a power over Lily because Lily doesn't know her story. Another key element in the theme of feminism is the religion that the Boatwright's follow. They pray to Our Lady in Chains, or Mary the mother of Jesus. They have a story about how she saved slaves and therefore they want to recognize her and not just her son. The sisters meet together with other people in the community for worship and sunday services all revolving around Mary. There is even a holiday devoted solely to her. Feminism played a huge role throughout the book. Lily comes into her own and learns how to be a woman from living at the Boatwright's house.