Hurston, Zora Neale: 1891-1960
Their Eyes Were Watching God, 1937 - Language/Style
- English Language Level: Difficult
- Dialect and Vernacular – Hurston uses Southern Black dialect extensively, which can be unfamiliar and requires careful reading to understand the nuance of speech patterns.
Poetic and Figurative Language – The prose is highly lyrical, with metaphors, symbolism, and imagery woven throughout, demanding active interpretation.
Complex Syntax – The sentences often have unusual structure or multiple clauses, which can slow reading and comprehension.
Cultural and Historical Context – Understanding the characters’ experiences, societal norms, and references to African American life in the early 20th century adds an extra layer of difficulty.
Subtext and Themes – The novel explores deep themes like self-discovery, gender roles, and community, often through implication rather than direct statement, requiring critical thinking.
- Dialect and Vernacular – Hurston uses Southern Black dialect extensively, which can be unfamiliar and requires careful reading to understand the nuance of speech patterns.
- The language is richly poetic, dialect-heavy, and layered with symbolism, which can make it difficult for many readers.