In Praisesong for the Widow by Paule Marshall, Avey Johnson, a wealthy 64-year-old widow from New York, impulsively abandons a Caribbean cruise early and travels to Grenada after experiencing a series of unsettling events, including a dream about her great-aunt and an overwhelming feeling during a meal. In Grenada, she learns about the Carriacou Excursion and, following memories of her late husband and their past life, joins the islanders’ traditional Big Drum dance. This journey prompts her to reconnect with her heritage, leading to a profound spiritual and cultural awakening.

Praisesong for the Widow by Paule Marshall has garnered praise for its lyrical prose and rich cultural exploration. Critics laud the poignant, introspective journey of self-discovery and cultural reconnection. Some readers, however, find the pacing slow. Overall, it's celebrated for its profound narrative and deep emotional impact on themes of heritage and identity.

Readers who appreciate Praisesong For The Widow by Paule Marshall enjoy character-driven narratives exploring cultural heritage, identity, and personal transformation. Fans of Alice Walker's The Color Purple and Toni Morrison's Beloved will find similar emotional depth and rich, evocative prose.

Contemplative / Emotional / Nostalgic / Bittersweet / Inspirational

Paule Marshall

Adult

Novel

Of the Diaspora

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Praisesong For The Widow and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Praisesong For The Widow Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Runagate”

Part 1, Chapters 1-3

Praisesong For The Widow Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 4-6

Praisesong For The Widow Part 1, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Sleeper’s Wake”

Part 2, Chapters 1-3

Praisesong For The Widow Part 2, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 4-5

Praisesong For The Widow Part 2, Chapters 4-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Lavé Tête”

Part 3, Chapters 1-3

Praisesong For The Widow Part 3, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 4-6

Praisesong For The Widow Part 3, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Beg Pardon”

Part 4, Chapters 1-3

Praisesong For The Widow Part 4, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Praisesong For The Widow Character Analysis

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Themes

Praisesong For The Widow Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Praisesong For The Widow Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Praisesong For The Widow Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Praisesong For The Widow Essay Topics

Praisesong For The Widow

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Praisesong For The Widow?

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Book Details