In her novel Song of Solomon Toni Morrison uses the main character and protagonist Milkman, to demonstrate the value of caring for others and giving back what is received in return. The author shows that there are two parts to a relationship, whether it is a love relationship, a family relationship, a friendship, or any other type of a relationship between two people. Both must put something in, in order to get something out of it. This in turn sparks a positive connection between the two partners. The change of Milkman's character and actions towards others is used by Morrison to demonstrate the value of relationships between humans, and portray how these relationships are crucial to life on earth.

In the beginning and throughout the story, Milkman is seen to be a self-centered egoist who does not give anything back in return for the love and care that...