You better not never tell nobody but God

You better not never tell nobody but God

In Alice Walker's novel "The Color Purple," the phrase "You better not never tell nobody but God" is a powerful and poignant statement that encapsulates the theme of secrecy and silence in the lives of the characters. The novel follows the life of Celie, a young African American woman who faces abuse and oppression at the hands of her father and later her husband. Throughout the story, Celie is forced to keep her pain and suffering hidden from the outside world, leading her to confide in God as her only source of solace and comfort.

The phrase "You better not never tell nobody but God" is first spoken by Celie's stepfather, Alphonso, as he warns her not to reveal the abuse she has endured at his hands. This command sets the tone for the rest of the novel, as Celie is forced to keep her trauma a secret in order to protect herself and her loved ones. The idea of confiding in God becomes a recurring motif in the story, as Celie turns to prayer as a way to express her deepest emotions and fears.

The theme of secrecy and silence is further explored through the character of Shug Avery, a singer and Celie's lover. Shug encourages Celie to break free from the constraints of her past and speak her truth, challenging the notion that she must keep her pain hidden. Through her relationship with Shug, Celie learns to find her voice and assert her own agency, ultimately breaking free from the cycle of abuse and oppression that has defined her life.

The phrase "You better not never tell nobody but God" serves as a reminder of the power of silence and the ways in which it can both protect and imprison us. In the context of "The Color Purple," it highlights the importance of speaking out against injustice and finding the strength to share our stories with others. Through Celie's journey towards self-discovery and empowerment, Alice Walker explores the transformative power of breaking the silence and finding the courage to speak our truth.