Final answer:
In "Everyday Use," important symbols include the quilt, which manifests different approaches to heritage; Dee's name change and polaroids, signaling her identity reinvention; and other natural elements that symbolically connect to the human experience.
Step-by-step explanation:
Important symbols in "Everyday Use" are central to understanding the conflicts and themes in the story. The quilt is the most significant symbol; it represents heritage and different views of African-American identity. It is cherished for its practical use and familial sentimental value by Magee, while Dee views it as an artistic and cultural artifact, highlighting her more superficial connection to her heritage.
Moreover, Dee's name change and the polaroids she takes symbolize her attempt to create a new identity for herself, one that disconnects from her immediate family history and aligns with a broader African cultural heritage. This change indicates her desire for self-reinvention and reflects the various ways African Americans might deal with their identity in relation to their culture and history.
Lastly, other natural elements like the tree, cow, and heron serve as symbols too. For example, the tree may represent the deep roots of the family and their connection to the land and to each other, showing how the natural world can be a repository for human emotions and relationships.