Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

Introduction

“Their Eyes Were Watching God” is a seminal piece of literature that explores the life of an African-American woman in the early 20th century. Written by Zora Neale Hurston, the novel is a profound narrative that delves into themes of love, identity, freedom, and the human struggle for personal fulfillment. The story is set in the rural South and is centered around the life of Janie Crawford, a woman of mixed race who refuses to live passively in a world that tries to silence her voice.

Review

“Their Eyes Were Watching God” is a compelling and beautifully written novel that captures the reader’s attention from the very first page. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions and poetic language that bring the characters and settings to life. The story is told through the eyes of Janie, a strong and independent woman who is determined to live life on her own terms.

The novel begins with Janie returning to her hometown of Eatonville, Florida, after being away for several years. Her return sparks curiosity among the townsfolk, and through a series of flashbacks, Janie recounts her life story to her friend Pheoby Watson.

Janie’s life is marked by three significant relationships. Her first marriage, arranged by her grandmother, is to an older man named Logan Killicks who treats her more like a laborer than a wife. Seeking love and adventure, Janie leaves Logan for Joe Starks, a charismatic man who promises her a better life. Joe becomes a successful businessman and the mayor of Eatonville, but his controlling nature stifles Janie’s spirit. After Joe’s death, Janie meets and falls in love with Tea Cake, a younger man who treats her as an equal and introduces her to a world of new experiences.

Analysis

“Their Eyes Were Watching God” is a powerful exploration of a woman’s quest for self-discovery and personal freedom. Hurston uses the character of Janie to challenge the traditional roles of women, particularly black women, in society. Janie’s journey is not just about finding love, but also about finding herself.

The novel is also notable for its use of dialect. Hurston’s use of African-American vernacular language adds authenticity to the narrative and reflects her respect for the culture and experiences of black people in the South.

One of the central themes in the novel is the concept of voice and silence. Throughout the novel, Janie struggles to find her own voice in a world that often tries to silence her. Her first two husbands deny her the right to speak and express herself, but with Tea Cake, she finally finds a partner who listens to her and values her opinions.

Another important theme is the power of nature. Hurston uses natural imagery and metaphors to symbolize the inner lives of her characters. For example, the image of the pear tree, which Janie sees blossoming in her youth, becomes a symbol of her longing for a fulfilling and passionate life.

About the Author

Zora Neale Hurston was an influential author and anthropologist, known for her contributions to African-American literature and her portrayal of racial struggles in the American South. Born in 1891 in Alabama, Hurston grew up in Eatonville, Florida, one of the first all-black towns to be incorporated in the United States.

Hurston was a central figure of the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement in the 1920s that celebrated black creativity and expression. Her works often highlighted the richness of black culture and the complexities of black life. Despite her significant contributions, Hurston died in obscurity and poverty in 1960. It was not until the 1970s, with the efforts of author Alice Walker, that Hurston’s work was rediscovered and appreciated for its depth and originality. Today, “Their Eyes Were Watching God” is considered one of the most important works in the canon of African-American literature.