Most families practice some form of tradition and can look back at their family heritage to gain knowledge of their ancestry. Every tradition is bound by different values and beliefs which make it unique to each family. Alice Walker's short story, "Everyday Use" explores the values and beliefs of a middle-aged black woman and her two daughters, Maggie and Dee. In this short story, Walker writes about the family's struggle to understand their present life in relationship to the tradition of their culture. .
When we begin reading, we meet mother and Maggie, who are awaiting the arrival of Dee. When Dee arrives, she steps out of the car, wearing an ankle-length, yellow and orange dress. She is also wearing gold earrings that hang down to her shoulders and bracelets that dangle and make noise as she moves (67). She greets her family with an African salutation while her male companion tries to give Maggie a ceremonial handshake. When mother refers to her by her name, she corrects her and explains that she now has a new name. .
The story makes clear that Dee is confused about her inheritance through the use of the name. The idea of Dee changing her name proves her confusion. Dee chose the name, Wangero, to express unity with her African ancestry. Although mother wondered, "What happened to Dee?" she said, "If that's what you want us to call you, we"ll call you. I"ll get used to it" (68). Wangero says, "I couldn't bear it any longer, being named after the people who oppressed me" (68). Unbeknownst to Dee, she was named after aunt Dicie, who was named after Grandma Dee, who was named after her mother (68). Dee denied a name that was handed down through each generation to represent their strong family ties. .
Dee's confusion about the meaning of her heritage also emerges in her attitude towards the two quilts and the other household items. While Dee rejects the names of her ancestors, she values their handmade goods.