In today’s world, we encounter families with contrasting children – one who constantly desires more and one who is content and unselfish. “Everyday Use” narrates the tale of two sisters who are starkly different. The mother desires for her younger daughter, Maggie, to emulate her older daughter, Dee. While Dee is a materialistic individual with a college degree and an imminent wedding, Maggie remains a young girl. The narrative suggests that Dee has a greater inclination towards material possessions compared to Maggie. The mother remarks in the story that Dee desired elegant items like a flowery dress for her graduation and possessed a keen sense of fashion (460).
Their mother describes Dee as manlike and unattractive, but she has molded her into the epitome of a perfect child. In contrast, Maggie is not conventionally attractive like Dee. Dee herself admits to having dreams where they are reunited on a TV show hosted by Johnny Carson. The mother conveys that Dee is lighter-skinned, with nicer hair and a fuller figure compared to Maggie. She also mentions that Maggie has been physically scarred by a fire and is not intellectually bright, causing her to shuffle when she walks.
Dee’s feet, on the other hand, had a well-groomed appearance, as if they were crafted by God himself in a stylish manner (461). Additionally, we discover Dee’s “style” and how it impresses the other girls at school. Maggie observes her sister with a blend of envy and admiration (462). She believes that her sister has always held control over life, never having to face rejection. Maggie’s mother also perpetuates this idea by constantly giving in to Dee. Therefore, the moment when she finally denies Dee’s request for the quilts becomes a significant turning point in Maggie’s life.
The mother’s attitude towards Dee restricts her happiness. Dee is described as reading to them with no flicker of her eyelids for minutes. The temptation to fight her off arises often, especially when she pushes them away like dimwits (460). Dee’s self-centeredness and selfishness are also emphasized, as she insists on having everything new and rejects anything that looks old or unpleasant. In contrast, Maggie is portrayed as caring and generous, willing to accept anything given to her. Even if a dress has holes and is worn out, Maggie would appreciate it and wear it, while Dee would turn up her nose at it and demand a new one.
The mother ultimately realizes that her daughters are perfect as they are. She fully accepts and appreciates Dee and Maggie’s limitations, cherishing their love and emotions. It is unnecessary for everyone to excel in worldly achievements. This could explain why Maggie wore a smile at the end – her mother had finally embraced her true self.
