Similarities Between Maude Martha And If He Hollers Let Him Go

In the African American literary tradition there are various forms of texts. After close analysis of different genres it is apparent that there is a clear tradition that connects each character and plot line. These traditions has to do with Self-discovery, self-love, self-Growth and, Adversity. Even though each piece of text we looked at involved a different kind of experience for the individual each one connected in that they all shared these traditions. Self-discovery, and growth appears especially in the novels Maud Martha and If He Hollers Let Him Go. In the Book Maud Martha written by Gwendolyn Brooks the main character Maud Martha self discovery was about gaining confidence as well as an insight into her own individual self worth. Maud

Gwendolyn Brooks states, “But dandelions were what she chiefly saw. Yellow Jewels for everyday, studding the patched green dress of her backyard”(2). Maud Martha in essence is a dandelion, and although dandelions go unnoticed they still have value. Dandelions are jewels because they are beautiful, but tend to be hidden in plain sight. Maud even has a moment where she recognizes the qualities that make her just as good if not better than Helen. Gwendolyn Brooks states, “My hair is longer and thicker, she thought. I’m much smarter. I read books and newspapers and old folks like to talk with me, she thought”(34). Although Maud is insecure she still has insight into what makes her special as well as

Gwendolyn Brooks states, “Even with all this hair which I have just assured him, in response to his question, is not natural, is not good grade or anything like good grade even with whatever I have that puts a dimple in his heart, even with these nice ears, I am still, definitely, not what he can call pretty”(53). Maud Martha is again thinking of her own self-worth in relation to someone else’s imagined image of her. Although Maud Martha has negative views of how she looks she begins to realize that she is worthy of Marrying Paul. Gwendolyn Brooks states, “I am what he would call sweet, and I am good, and he will marry me”(54). Maud Martha is beginning to accept herself, and become more confident in who she is as a