Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God is a powerful and enduring work of fiction that has inspired generations of readers with its portrayal of the struggles, triumphs, and dreams of African American women. One of the most striking aspects of the novel is the way in which Hurston uses quotes and other literary devices to convey the themes and ideas of her story. In this essay, we will explore some of the most memorable quotes from Their Eyes Were Watching God and consider how they contribute to the overall meaning of the novel.
One of the most iconic quotes from the novel comes from the character of Janie, the protagonist, who says, "Love is lak de sea. It's uh movin' thing, but still and all, it takes its shape from de shore it meets, and it's different with every shore." This quote speaks to the idea that love is a powerful and transformative force, but it is also shaped and influenced by the people and circumstances we encounter in life. Janie's journey through the novel is one of self-discovery and self-expression, and this quote captures the idea that she is constantly learning and growing through her experiences with love.
Another memorable quote from the novel is Janie's declaration that "De nigger woman is de mule uh de world so fur as Ah can see." This quote speaks to the theme of the novel, which is the struggle of African American women to assert their own identity and agency in a world that often seeks to control and oppress them. Janie's assertion of her own power and dignity in the face of these challenges is a key part of her journey, and this quote captures the spirit of her struggle.
Finally, we can consider the quote, "She pulled in her horizon like a great fish-net. Pulled it from around the waist of the world and draped it over her shoulder. So much of life in its meshes! She called in her soul to come and see." This quote speaks to the idea of the journey of self-discovery and the importance of finding and embracing one's own identity. Janie's journey through the novel is one of self-discovery and self-expression, and this quote captures the idea that she is constantly learning and growing through her experiences.
Overall, the quotes from Their Eyes Were Watching God are an integral part of the novel and contribute to its enduring power and appeal. Whether exploring themes of love, identity, or self-expression, Hurston's words speak to the hearts and minds of readers, inspiring them to consider their own journey through life and the world around them. So, these are some of the quotes from the novel which are very inspiring and have a deep meaning.
