People may connect with birds in many ways. Laurie Halse Anderson’s novel, Speak, transforms ordinary birds into powerful symbols. Anderson’s writing touches on heavy/controversial subjects. Her message cannot be expressed in just one sentence. The story’s protagonist Melinda is influenced by the symbol of birds. Anderson uses Melinda Sordino’s interpretation of the evolution of birds to connect themes around trauma, redemption, as well as freedom.
The symbol Thanksgiving turkey by the Sordinos is what shaped the meaning of birds within this novel. Melinda, who was raped by the horrible bird, is now unable to comprehend this symbol of tradition. Melinda’s parents, however, revere this turkey and the values it represents. Their annual “holy obligation”, which they consider a redemption for the family’s failures every day, is what they view as their salvation. Melinda claims that “Thanksgiving dinner represents something” to Melinda’s mother. Melinda’s harsh critique of her ignorant mom shows how much she’s changed. Anderson’s use hyperbole in describing the terrible turkey dinner creates a harsh, condescending tone. Melinda sees her dad continue to butcher the turkey and “buries it in the back yard beside their dead beagle Ariel.” Melinda feels that her parents are unable to understand what Melinda is going through or how the turkey can mean to them. Melinda is not able to reach out and support her neglectful parents because of her scornful tone. They are unable to understand Melinda’s condemnation of tradition, and her past that she has buried like a failed Thanksgiving soup. This broken tradition is related to Halse Anderson’s message that trauma victims must accept their mistakes and forgive themselves. It will change the way they see life. Melinda lost much more than her virginity in the rape. She lost her innocence. Her past. The traditions that made me who I am. Anderson’s use for the turkey represents all Melinda was once, as well as the legacy of her past and the traditions that made her who she is today. The turkey bones became a work-of-art, full of emotion and meaning. This symbol symbolizes second chances and Melinda’s growing ability to heal. Melinda is known for her ability to make scarred pieces of herself into something that can be used and desired. From her friend and teacher, Mr. Freeman, she learned to “hold on to everything a normal individual would throw away …”” However, the turkey bone statue shows that Melinda still struggles. Melinda struggles to cope with the constant depression that she carries. She is slowly figuring out how the broken pieces from her past self fit together but she needs to be strong enough to take off the tape that stops Barbie from speaking up. Anderson’s use tactile imagery to describe the statues and tape helps to explain Melinda’s incapacity to speak. Melinda seems to be being held back because of this. The statue is ultimately about themes of redemption. It is possible to make someone whole again by giving them a second chance. Melinda had reached a place in her life where she recognized this but had much to do before she could let go of the past.
Melinda’s story is about birds. Melinda achieves freedom through the symbolism of a bird flying. She does this by releasing the shame, guilt, and self-loathing which held her down. Melinda “draws them with no thought – flight, feathers and wings.” She then embarks on a new journey, leaving behind her anxiety and perfectionism. Anderson’s use of optimistic diction when Anderson describes the birds as “blooming” with “expanding potential” gives the impression that there is hope. This voice is key in setting the scene for Melinda’s future where she is free as a bird and hopeful of the possibilities that lie ahead. Melinda is freed from the burdens of shame and guilt that she had been holding onto for so long. Melinda learns forgiveness is possible, even if it comes from you. Birds were once a restriction that prevented Melinda’s growth, healing, and most importantly, freedom. She is now able to fly, and she feels alive.
Melinda Sordino changed as she grew up. Melinda Sordino’s final artwork project, the Thanksgiving dinner and statue, became more than their obvious meanings. Laurie Halse Anderson uses the symbols to transform an ordinary creature into symbolic symbols that emphasize themes about trauma, redemption, liberation. Readers felt the protagonist’s pain and hoped for her healing. They also rejoiced when Melinda was finally freed by a tiny bird.
