Common Feature in Characters
In the selected writings, two characters stand out for their strong moral principles: the protagonist of Lucille Clifton’s poem “homage to my hips” and the character of Armand Aubigny in Kate Chopin’s short story “Désirée’s Baby.” Both characters exhibit characteristics that align with integrity, albeit in vastly different contexts and outcomes.
Lucille Clifton’s Poem
In Lucille Clifton’s “homage to my hips,” the speaker, presumably Clifton herself, displays strong moral principles through her unapologetic embrace and celebration of her body against societal norms. The poem is a bold declaration of self-acceptance and defiance of the restrictive standards imposed on women’s bodies. Clifton writes, “these hips are big hips / they need space to / move around in” (Clifton, 1987). Through these lines, Clifton embodies the integrity of being true to oneself, rejecting the idea that she must conform to a specific body image to be valued or accepted. Her self-assurance and refusal to be constrained by societal expectations show a commitment to personal authenticity and integrity.
Kate Chopin’s Short Story
In Kate Chopin’s “Désirée’s Baby,” the character of Désirée displays strong moral principles in her heartfelt response to the unfounded accusations about her child’s race. Despite the painful rejection by her husband, Armand, and the implications for her and her child’s future, Désirée maintains her dignity and love for her child. She writes to her mother, “I cannot be so unhappy, and live” (Chopin, 1893). Désirée’s integrity is evident in her unwavering love for her child and her refusal to accept the racist and unjust treatment from Armand. Her tragic resolution to leave with her child rather than endure the cruelty and false judgment of others exemplifies her strong moral fiber.
Alissa Quart’s Essay
Both characters, Clifton’s speaker and Désirée, contrast with the individualistic and self-sufficient narrative described in “Welcome to the New American Dream.” The essay critiques the bootstrap myth that “true success meant getting ahead on only your energy and steam, without help from your family, government, or community” (Quart, 2023). This myth promotes a relentless individualism that overlooks the importance of collective action and support, which is essential for a more equitable and inclusive society. Clifton and Désirée, through their integrity, highlight the need for a community that accepts and supports individuals for who they are rather than pressuring them to conform to harmful and restrictive norms.
References
Chopin, K. (1893). Désirée’s baby. Vogue.
Clifton, L. (1987). homage to my hips. BOA Editions Ltd.
Quart, A. (2023). Welcome to the new American dream. Time Magazine International Edition.