But maybe a man was nothing but a man, which is what Baby Suggs always said. They encouraged you to put some of your weight in their hands and soon as you felt how light and lovely that was, they studied your scars and tribulations, after which they did what he had done: ran her children out and tore up the house.{...}A man ain't nothing but a man,' said Baby Suggs. 'But a son? Well now, that's somebody.
In Toni Morrison's "Beloved," Baby Suggs reflects on the nature of humanity and relationships, expressing a poignant perspective on the roles of men and sons. She suggests that while a man is just a man, a son holds a greater significance. This duality emphasizes the complexities of identity and the weight one carries through life's experiences. Rather than defining worth solely by gender, Baby Suggs acknowledges the deeper connections and expectations tied to parenthood, particularly the bond between a mother and her son.
The narrative continues to explore themes of pain and healing, as characters confront their pasts and share burdens with one another. The idea that individuals need to lean on each other for support resonates throughout the story. The lightness experienced when one allows others to help can reveal both scars and the potential for recovery. By recognizing the struggles of both men and women, Morrison invites readers to contemplate the value of human connections in overcoming adversity and defining personal identity.
