Includes bibliographical references (pages 197-215) and index.
Contents
A politics of the heart: Toni Morrison's theory of motherhood as a site of power and motherwork as concerned with the empowerment of children -- Disconnections from the motherline: gender hegemonies and the loss of the ancient properties: The Bluest Eye, Sula, Tar Baby -- Ruptures/disruptions of the motherline: slavery, migration, and assimilation: Song of Solomon, Beloved -- Reconnections to the motherline: deliverance and exile: Song of Solomon, Tar Baby -- Maternal interventions: resistance and power: The Bluest Eye, Sula, Song of Solomon, Tar Baby, Beloved, Paradise -- Maternal healing: reconciliation and redemption: Jazz, Paradise.