Themes: Sexism

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

Lula embodies a mythical, malevolent Eve, using her seductive charm and deadly intentions to lure Clay (Adam, who was formed from clay). Like Eve, she eats and offers apples, overwhelming Clay with so much fruit that he can't consume any more. She represents the archetype of the Gorgon/siren/fury, the ultimate devouring female figure. Symbolically, she emasculates Clay by constantly questioning his "manhood" with sharp remarks; ultimately, she physically destroys him, disposing of his body by throwing it off the train. As a barren goddess, her hands are "dry as ashes," and she leads him into a room "black as a grave," a place she claims will remind him of "Juliet's tomb." She lures Clay with promises of sexual satisfaction, kills him emotionlessly with a quick stab, and then prepares for her next victim. Despite this, she is tired of the repetitive cycle of her life; she has "a gray hair for each year and type" of man she has consumed. Lula is part of the sisterhood of "Crow Jane," or "Mama Death," representing Baraka's idea of the siren muse who seduces black artists into altering their black creativity to fit the empty, barren standards of white art.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Previous

Themes: Passivity

Next

Themes: Title and Symbolism

Loading...