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Highlight examples of Hurston’s voice.

Anyone who looked more white folkish than herself was better than she was in her criteria, therefore it was right that they should be cruel to her at times, just as she was cruel to those more negroid than herself in direct ratio to their negroness. . . . Insensate cruelty to those you can whip, and groveling submission to those you can’t. Once having set up her idols and built altars to them it was inevitable that she would worship there.

–Their Eyes Were Watching God,
Zora Neale Hurston

1 answer

In this excerpt from Their Eyes Were Watching God, Zora Neale Hurston's voice is characterized by several distinct features:

  1. Social Critique: Hurston critiques the hierarchies within the African American community, exploring themes of colorism and self-worth. The phrase "more white folkish" illustrates societal standards that value whiteness over Blackness, revealing the internalized racism that affects her characters’ identities and relationships.

  2. Complex Characterization: The language showcases a deep understanding of human psychology. The description of the character's “insensate cruelty” and “groveling submission” reflects a nuanced portrayal of how people navigate social power dynamics. Hurston does not simply present her characters as victims; rather, she delves into their contradictions and moral failings.

  3. Emotional Depth: Hurston's voice conveys emotional weight and complexity. The phrases "inevitable that she would worship there" suggest a resignation to societal norms, indicating a painful acceptance that resonates with the reader.

  4. Rich Imagery and Symbolism: Hurston's use of terms like "idols" and "altars" adds a layer of vivid imagery that evokes religious connotations, underscoring the power dynamics at play in the community. This imagery reflects deeper themes of worship and idolization of societal standards, illustrating how harmful beliefs are perpetuated.

  5. Rhythmic Prose: Her prose has a lyrical quality that is both rhythmic and engaging. The structure of the sentences, with their cascading clauses, invites the reader to ponder the intricacies of the ideas being presented, mirroring the complexity of the social issues at hand.

Overall, Hurston’s voice blends sharp social commentary, intricate character exploration, and poetic language, creating a powerful narrative that critiques societal norms while delving into the human experience.