The Bluest Eye, written by Toni Morrison in 1970, is a novel that explores themes of race, beauty, and self-worth through the experiences of its young protagonist, Pecola Breedlove. Set in Lorain, Ohio in the 1940s, the novel follows Pecola as she struggles to find acceptance and love in a society that values white beauty above all else.
Throughout the novel, Morrison uses various literary techniques to convey the themes and messages of the story. One such technique is the use of annotations, or small notes or explanations added to the text. These annotations serve a number of purposes, including providing background information, offering insight into the characters' thoughts and motivations, and highlighting important themes and symbols.
One significant example of annotation in The Bluest Eye is the use of song lyrics and other cultural references. Morrison frequently includes snippets of popular songs and cultural references in the text, often using them to comment on the experiences of the characters. For example, Pecola's mother Pauline often sings the song "Blue Skies" as she works, and the lyrics of the song serve as a commentary on the bleak and hopeless reality of Pecola's life. Similarly, references to films and other cultural phenomena, such as Shirley Temple and "The Little Colonel," serve to highlight the societal obsession with white beauty and the damaging effects it has on Pecola and other black characters in the novel.
Another important use of annotation in The Bluest Eye is the inclusion of footnotes and other explanatory notes throughout the text. These notes often provide background information about the historical and cultural context of the novel, helping readers to better understand the experiences and perspectives of the characters. For instance, Morrison includes a number of footnotes explaining the history of Lorain, Ohio and its significance as a center of industry and immigration. These notes also help to illustrate the ways in which the larger societal and cultural forces shape the lives and experiences of the characters.
In addition to providing background information and cultural context, the annotations in The Bluest Eye also serve to highlight the themes and symbols of the novel. For example, Morrison frequently uses the image of blue eyes as a symbol of the societal obsession with white beauty and the damaging effects it has on Pecola and other black characters. The annotations help to reinforce this symbol by providing additional context and explanation, making it clear to readers the importance of this image in the overall narrative.
Overall, the annotations in The Bluest Eye play a crucial role in helping readers to better understand the characters, themes, and symbols of the novel. Through the use of song lyrics, footnotes, and other explanatory notes, Morrison provides valuable context and insight into the experiences of Pecola and the larger societal forces at work in her life. These annotations serve to enrich the reading experience and enhance the depth and complexity of the novel.