Mama calls Hakim-a-barber “the barber” because she does not understand how to say his name. This could also show that she feels as if his name is unusual or funny. Also, it could show that Mama feels disconnected to Hakim-a-barber (and Dee as well). Similar to Hakim-a-barber, Dee has taken on a traditional name. When Dee arrives, she informs Mama that she’s changed her name to a traditional African name (Wangero) because she was named after people who oppress her—referring to the fact that Dee is traditionally a name for a white person. Mama is confused by this and reminds Dee that she was named after her aunt. Dee changing her name is another source of disconnect between her and Mama. While Dee has left her traditional heritage behind, wanting to move on and preserve it, Mama continues to honor tradition by living it.
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