Cane · Question
How does Cane develop the theme of Modernity vs. Tradition?
Answer
Cane by Jean Toomer develops Modernity vs. Tradition across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The tension between rural Southern life and urban Northern aspirations is evident in characters who migrate, return, or feel trapped, reflecting the broader cultural shift from agrarian roots to industrial modernity during the early 20th century.
Seventh Street embodies the clash between traditional, rural Black life and the modern, urban, industrial world shaped by Prohibition and war, with jazz, Cadillacs, and bootlegging symbolizing a new, fast-paced, and commodified existence.
The imagery of lamp-posts, telephone power-houses, and billboards ties the expression of desire to modern urban technology.
Dan's radical ideas about love and life oppose the conventional, newspaper-reading world represented by Mrs. Pribby.
Evidence in the book
- Seventh Street
Seventh Street embodies the clash between traditional, rural Black life and the modern, urban, industrial world shaped by Prohibition and war, with jazz, Cadillacs, and bootlegging symbolizing a new, fast-paced, and commodified existence.
- Her Lips Are Copper Wire
The imagery of lamp-posts, telephone power-houses, and billboards ties the expression of desire to modern urban technology.
- I
Dan's radical ideas about love and life oppose the conventional, newspaper-reading world represented by Mrs. Pribby.
