Initial Personal Reaction: At
first glance this looked like a story of a bride with cold feet. However, upon further inspection there was
more to it. Walker tells the story
through the thoughts of Roselily, a poor mother of three who is currently being
wed. I felt this was a rather interesting way to tell a story. This is done by using a limited point of view,
only allowing the reader to know the thoughts and observations of a single
character. Personally, this piece actually does have relevance since I am currently
engaged, I sure hope she isn’t thinking like Roselily.
Literary Element/Thematic Analysis: Walker’s use of imagery particularly stands
out as the most influential literary element in Roselily. The comparison of
Roselily to “cotton ready to be weighed” not only objectifies her, but because
this is coming from Roselily’s own thoughts makes me think she is not in this
relationship for love. Secondly,
Roselily thinks of ropes, chains, and handcuffs when she thinks about her fiancé’s
religion. Again, this is setting off
alarms, this does not sound like the thoughts of a woman in love who is supposed
to be having the best day of her life. Throughout
the story, Walker’s use of imagery paints a portrait of a woman, not marrying
for love, but who is marrying a man for the possibilities of a better life.
Questions/Comments: I
feel that the imagery used was the strongest literary element Walker used truly
giving insight to the reader, even though this story is in the point of view
category. What do you think? Do you
maybe have a different idea of what Walker is saying?
