Secret Life of Bees : Search for a Mother

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Throughout the story of Lily's journey, her desire for a mother figure is consistent throughout. Lily's mother was accidentally killed by Lily when she was very young, she does not remember killing her but feels she played a role in it throughout the novel. Her first attempt at a mother figure is Rosaleen, her house keeper. They flee together from her abusive Husband, and she becomes an important part of Lily's development. Though Rosaleen cares for Lily tremendously, she is somewhat insensitive, and has a large personality, lack the compassion and love that Lily desires for in a mother.

August provides this desired love in two ways: She herself is caring and compassionate and shows her love for Lily by taking her in and guiding her about life. The the other way is how August teaches her that she is loved by a universal Mother in Christianity. By teaching Lily that the love from God can fill the emptiness that she feels from not having a mother, she also physically fills this role and connects with her profoundly. It is a powerful thing that Lily learns that a maternal love can be felt by someone who is not a biological mother, or even needs to have the same race or belief system. August's good heart and morality is what Lily binds herself to and is a catalyst for her growth and maturity.

I think this is one of the most important things the book deals with, however, my favorite motif in the book are the bees. Something that many people are afraid of and find as a nuisance are so important to Lily's life. The bee's lead her away from her abusive father, which is a jumping point for Lily's individuality to blossom. The honey is involved all throughout the story, such as when she realizes she loves August because she as well is not afraid of them. Every major feeling and decision Lily makes, the bees are somehow involved.This is a cool and unique use of a motif that is a testament to Sue Monk Kidd's skills as a writer. She creates an unusual, yet powerful connection between a young girl and a flying insect.

Comments

  1. Kiara McVayOctober 18, 2019 at 11:38 AM

    I too agree that the way Sue Monkk Kidd correlates Lillly’s life with the bee’s was pretty different yet so smart. I liked August and Lilly’s connection inside of this story because it was so genuine and it truly helped Lilly change for the better considering the type of household she was raised in.

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  2. NoahGoodwinOctober 20, 2019 at 10:29 AM

    I also love the Kid's usage of the bees and the dichotomy she presents with them. Most young girls would be terrified of bees swarming her and coming out of her walls, but Lily uses them as a roadmap and creates such a powerful connection that even the reader can understand.

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