Biblical Analysis of Song of Solomon; Title Analysis (Part II)


From its first impressions, Toni Morrison gives Song of Solomon a biblical meaning. In the Bible, Song of Solomon, or sometimes called Song of Songs, is a book with no clear author. The book tells of an imaginary dreamlike story of two sexual lovers. Throughout the chapters, the text alludes many times to King Solomon, hence the name of the book. King Solomon ruled wisely and strongly over Israel in his early days. Being the son of legendary King David, Solomon completes a majestic temple for God. The tale goes that Solomon calls to God for help ruling over Israel. God then grants him one wish to help his rule. Instead of asking for money or power, he asks for wisdom. Impressed by Solomon, God not only makes Solomon the wisest man, but gives him the wealth and power as well. His early days were filled with conquest and success. However, like David, Solomon eventually turns away from God which starts the downfall of Israel.

Toni Morrison utilizes the imaginary aspect of Song of Solomon in her novel. The magical realism threaded through the novel- Freddie’s white bull, Roses swallowing Ruth, Pilate’s missing navel- plays with the biblical book of Song of Solomon. Morrison’s purpose is to portray the racial and gender equality issues of the time as an internalized myth. The notion that blacks are less than whites or males are more capable are these myths and engraved dreams to society. In regards to the biblical Solomon, Toni Morrison uses Mr. Solomon and his general store in the novel. Milkman’s car breaks down on his journey right in front of Mr. Solomon’s store. Mr. Solomon is portrayed as a special figure- “a light-skinned Negro with red hair” (261). Mysteriously, Mr. Solomon provides Milkman with much information. Milkman learns that he is in Shalimar and his “friend” is chasing him. Mr. Solomon is a wise character that is portrayed as almost godly with the capitalized N in “Negro.” He creates peace between Milkman and Saul at the bar and alerts Milkman of Guitar. This biblical allusion relates to God being the guidance that the colored needed to justify racial equalities in America. The bible was proof for many blacks that all men were created equal.

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