In "The Color Purple," Shug expresses a profound perspective on God and the world around us. She suggests that God values admiration and wants people to appreciate the beauty in life. According to Shug, it's not vanity that motivates God; instead, it is a desire for connection and joy. When people overlook the beauty, such as the color purple in a field, it angers God, as He longs for His creations to be recognized and cherished.
This conversation highlights the importance of awareness and gratitude in life. Celie's response indicates that she initially struggles with the idea of God's nature, contemplating whether it implies vanity. However, Shug's explanation reveals that acknowledging life's beauty is a fundamental aspect of spirituality. It's about celebrating the wonders around us and sharing in the joy that creation brings.