Critical Lens Expert: Marxist lens #2

Song of Solomon

Marxist Lens

A Marxist perspective review by Doreatha Drummond Mbalia; a professor from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee specializing in the Africology studies there, interprets Song of Solomon as another common starting point for any African American wishing to change the structure of today’s social class. This is obviously true to fact, as there has been a definite history of racial tension when the black people are brought up. As we all know, blacks have been a commonly used example when describing situations of race or class because of the ongoing mistreatment in both the north and especially the south. But while race does play a role in the story, class is the main focus because both tie into each other and also because Mbalia compliments Morrison and the story by this quote: “She is more aware of the role capitalism plays in the African’s exploitation and oppression”.

Considering Milkman Dead’s lifestyle, his job, and the ways he makes money for himself Mbalia quotes “ As his nickname suggests, he milks women, pilfering their love and giving them nothing in return”. Generally this means that he views females as nothing more than tools. This is of course a mindset for any corrupt tycoon who seeks to make money in the poverty of others. Mbalia quotes further that: “He loves her solely as a receptacle in which to empty his lust”. Besides possessing dark interests that have lead many to their downfall, it is my thought that he seeks out the females as quick money as well. It is understandable, since it is said he has lived a sheltered life and has little understanding of the moral ethics of business. This is what makes Milkman’s transition from an apathetic man to a more wiser one quite a challenge. For a man who has been studying the finances that have economically upgraded him to a high middle class worker and elevated his status as to a respected person in a financial sense to one that now has a moral code is difficult because they simply don’t mix. The financial area is a cold business, and you have to be the firmest there is, but Milkman is the first one who pulls it off at the end, henceforth proving that a position of power can corrupt one’s moral sense if held too long, but with proper help and tutelage you can be able to stay sable and perform tasks with reason and sense.