Morrison uses many symbolic examples throughout “Recitatif”. Food recurs throughout the story and is symbolic of the motif of mothering, nurturing, and abandonment (Akers 246). When Roberta gives Twyla her food that Roberta’s mother brought for her, this shows the symbolic alliance between the girls (Akers 246). After Twyla’s mother arrives at the orphanage and they go to chapel, everyone has lunch. Mary, Twyla’s mother does not bring Twyla anything, so they eat the jellybeans Twyla previously spilled on the floor. Twyla’s mother does not understand what her daughter needs, so Twyla is literally and symbolically undernourished (Akers 247).
Another example of symbolism in “Recitatif” is Maggie. Maggie is the mute kitchen woman. Twyla and Roberta
Another example of symbolism in “Recitatif” is Maggie. Maggie is the mute kitchen woman. Twyla and Roberta