Milkman's Quest for Gold
In Song of Solomon, we see Milkman go on a quest for Pilate's gold. Arguably, for him, it was never really about the gold, but about gaining a sense of independence and a better understanding of who he is. First of all, there was little evidence to support the fact that Pilate's gold was actually in Virginia, or that she ever had it in the first place. Yet Milkman still readily leaves his hometown and ventures out on his own for something he is not even sure will be there. He does not care as much about the gold as he does about leaving the familiarity of his home and exploring the unknown. He wants to gain a sense of independence and establish a name for himself rather than simply being known as Macon Dead's Son. During Milkman's quest, he also gets a chance to learn more about his own family history. When he arrives in Pennsylvania, he is surprised to find that people actually think of Macon Dead fondly, and it fills him with joy. His entire life, Milkman has been us...