Themes in short story "Strong Horse Tea"

 In Alice Walker's short story "Strong Horse Tea," the themes of rejection, ignorance, hope, waiting, homelessness, desperation, grief, the rule of capitalism, motherhood, the role of nature, sickness, racism, feminism, supreme confidence, and realism are interwoven to create a powerful narrative about the struggles of a young black mother in a society rife with inequality and prejudice.

The protagonist, Rannie, experiences rejection and ignorance from both the medical establishment and her community when she seeks help for her sick baby. Her desperate attempts to save her child are met with skepticism and condescension. This reflects the theme of rejection and ignorance, as those in positions of power dismiss her concerns due to her race and social status. This rejection and ignorance also tie into the theme of the rule of capitalism, as Rannie's inability to pay for proper medical care contributes to her desperation and hopelessness.

In the face of such adversity, Rannie holds onto hope, waiting for a miracle to save her child. This hope is a central theme in the story, as it drives Rannie to seek out alternative remedies and solutions despite the overwhelming odds against her. Her hope is also intertwined with the theme of desperation, as she becomes increasingly desperate to find a cure for her child's illness.

The theme of homelessness is also prominent in the story, as Rannie and her family struggle to make ends meet and find stable housing. This lack of stability contributes to Rannie's desperation and grief, as she grapples with the reality of her circumstances. The role of nature is also important, as Rannie turns to natural remedies and traditional healing methods in her quest to save her child.

The theme of motherhood is central to the story, as Rannie's fierce determination to save her child drives the narrative. Her unwavering love and devotion to her son highlight the sacrifices and struggles that come with the role of motherhood, especially for black women in a society marked by racism and inequality.

The themes of sickness and racism are intricately linked, as Rannie's inability to access proper medical care is exacerbated by the racist attitudes of those around her. The intersection of race and healthcare access is a prevalent issue in the story, as Rannie's race and social status directly impact her ability to receive adequate treatment for her child.

The theme of feminism also permeates the narrative, as Rannie's struggle is emblematic of the broader challenges faced by black women in a patriarchal and racist society. Her refusal to accept the dismissive attitudes of those around her and her determination to fight for her child's well-being exemplify the resilience and strength of black women in the face of systemic oppression.

Supreme confidence is another important theme, as Rannie's unwavering belief in her ability to save her child and provide for her family underscores the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Her confidence is a testament to the power of hope and determination, even in the most dire of circumstances.

Finally, the theme of realism is central to the story, as Walker's unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities faced by Rannie and her family highlights the pervasive inequality and injustice that exists in society. The story serves as a poignant commentary on the struggles of marginalized communities and the need for systemic change to address these pressing issues.

In conclusion, "Strong Horse Tea" by Alice Walker weaves together a myriad of themes to create a powerful and thought-provoking narrative about the struggles of a young black mother in a society marked by rejection, ignorance, desperation, and inequality. Through the story of Rannie, Walker offers a poignant reflection on the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the enduring strength and resilience of those who continue to fight for a better future.