The Secret Life of Bee’s Essay Example

This statement from Lily in The Secret Life of Bees highlights her lack of love from her parents and her struggle to respond to the affection of others. The novel's portrayal of a white character, Lily, developing a loving relationship with black characters demonstrates the ability for love to transcend racial barriers. This theme prompts readers to reflect on the value of parental love and avoid taking it for granted.

In the time period depicted in the book, discrimination against black people by white people was prevalent. However, Lily - one of the few whites - learned to see past skin color and love black people for who they truly were, as evidenced through her relationships with Rosaleen, August, May, June, Zach, Neil, and the Daughters of Mary. Her love for these individuals shows that anyone, regardless of race, can form meaningful connections. Additionally, Lily's overwhelming love for these black women is exemplified by her quote: "I wanted to say, I love you too. I love you all."

As Lily reflected on her feelings towards the Boatwright sisters and Rosaleen, she compared the sensation to a wind column rising within her, but when it reached her mouth, she was left with only air and longing, without any words or voice to express herself (Kidd, page 243). Although she desired to convey this sentiment at the time, she was not yet prepared to take that step in her life. However, towards the end of the book, Lily's love for her new family of black women grew and she exclaimed that she now had more mothers than any other eight girls off the street. She believed that

they were all like moons shining over her (Kidd, page 302).

As the protagonist of "The Secret Life of Bees", Lily Owens' journey showcases that anyone can triumph over adversity with perseverance and faith, even if they are societal outliers such as black women. Overcoming a variety of complications and hurdles, including the absence of a maternal figure and the guilt associated with accidentally causing her mother's death, Lily demonstrates that seemingly insurmountable problems can be tackled with determination and effort. Through her story, readers learn that anything is achievable once one moves past their challenges and embraces the power of hard work and trust.

This can also provide readers with inspiration by witnessing Lily's strength in overcoming her struggles, as demonstrated by the quote: "Look at me. I dived into one absurd thing after another, and here I am in the pink house. I wake up to wonder every day" (Kidd, page 300).

The text highlights how Lily faced several challenges before achieving her current position. Despite enduring tough times, she persevered, and her journey to success serves as an inspiration. Through a quote from Kidd's book (page 225), "I love this place with my whole heart," it's evident that Lily has moved on and embraced new surroundings after her quest to uncover her mother's story. The protagonist's struggles with her mother will resonate with young readers, who can identify with personal hurdles in their lives. The Secret Life of Bees further underscores that love knows no color, while emphasizing that a person can overcome life's setbacks through perseverance and hard work.

Through captivating characterization, particularly in the main character, Sue Monk Kidd imbues The Secret Life

of Bees with a sense of wholesomeness. The protagonist's persona and her approach to life prompt readers to cherish their blessings and alter their behavior towards others. As a Swedish Proverb says, "In a good book, the best is between the lines."