The Importance of Names in Song of Solomon

In Toni Morrison's Song of Solomon, names play a crucial role in shaping the identities and experiences of the characters. Throughout the novel, Morrison experiments with names to see how they reflect and shape a person's identity and sense of self. Through this process, she both uses names as symbols of heritage, but also white oppression, as most of the characters' formal names originate from a white slave owner. Because of this, Morrison downplays the importance of formal and written names, and embraces nicknames. Additionally, the names of Song of Solomon have more literal meanings, like Pilate and Circe (discussed later).

Names help shape one of the book's central themes: the importance of understanding and reclaiming one's history and heritage. This is exemplified through Milkman's journey of self-discovery to Pennsylvania as he seeks to understand his family's past and his own identity. As Milkman begins to uncover the secrets of his family's past, he realizes that his formal name (Macon Dead III) is not just a reflection of his place in the family hierarchy but also a symbol of how his ancestors lost their ability to carve out their own identities and histories. Milkman's grandfather, for example, was known only by the nickname "Macon," which was given to him by his white slave owner. When Milkman discovers that his real name was Jay Solomon, he feels proud of his family but also realizes how African Americans have been robbed of the significance of getting their name from their family, instead of having to carry an artificial white name.

So, in the place of formal names, nicknames are shown to be more important in defining one's character in Song of Solomon. Having a Macon Dead I, Macon Dead Jr., and Macon Dead III only showcases the power of the slave name and the lost identity of each subsequent man in the family. Macon Dead III, however, breaks the tradition by getting the "Milkman," which isn't perfect but still symbolizes how he finally breaks free from the vicious cycle of being defined by his father in the book's second half.

Pilate, Milkman's aunt, also showcases the power of nicknames. She doesn't even have an official name and is known only by the nickname given to her by her family. Despite this, Pilate is a strong and independent woman who defies societal expectations and refuses to be defined by others. Pilate can easily be seen as one of the most rebellious characters of the book, not caring immensely about other men (like Ruth and Hagar) and having unorthodox and supernatural mannerisms. Pilate's refusal to be defined by others and her determination to live on her own terms demonstrate the power of self-determination and the importance of taking control of one's identity.

There is also a good amount of literal symbolism that names give in the book. For example, Circe, who helps Milkman on his spiritual journey, shares her name with the witch from Homer's Odyssey, who is immensely helpful to Odysseus on his journey. Pilate's name can be interpreted as a derivative of the word "pilot," which is fitting since she helps command Milkman's journey to self-discovery.

Through the use of names, Morrison explores themes of history, heritage, and identity, and showcases how names can reflect and shape a person's sense of self and place in the world. There are still several more examples where names are significant in this book, but there are definitely too many to list in one blog post.