Theme Of Birds In Speak

Restrained by the chains of her own mind, Melinda Sordino finds herself in a situation where nothing seems to go her way. Swerving from corner to corner, she can’t hope to escape this endless loop of misery and despair… Right? In Laurie Anderson’s novel Speak, she intricately uses the symbolism of birds--especially one doomed turkey--to reveal how her own conviction was sidetracked and how alone and ensnared she is within her crippled mind. However, this symbol also eventually evolves into how Melinda can nurture her strength to move on from her burdens and finally be at an accord with herself. All of this then wraps together into one concrete idea of how Melinda grows throughout the story.

Birds are a prevalent symbol throughout the novel, but one of the most memorable mentions occurs Thanksgiving when Melinda’s Mother attempted to prepare a turkey meal. Unfortunately, this turkey doesn't get its moment to shine on a spinning platter because “she [boiled] the frozen turkey” (Anderson, 59), instead of defrosting it. The situation is only

For a first, Melinda’s own ability to be able to turn the mess of turkey cartilage into art shows that she’s able to flip the switch on things that injure her in more than a few ways. Besides “a palm tree is a nice touch” (Anderson, 64) to compose a more lighthearted and less dreary atmosphere. Moreover, in the finale of the story, Melinda realizes there is something crucial missing from her tree sketch. Thus, one by one she draws “without thinking--flight, flight, feather, wing.” (Anderson, 197.) This easily symbolizes Melinda’s discharge from her overbearing trauma and dejection, as she finally grants herself the ability to spread her wings and fly. Additionally, the best fact that emerges this, is that Melinda won’t look back--no matter what happens, she’s stronger now, and nothing else can pull her