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Their Eyes Were Watching God, by Zora Neale Hurston
We meet young Janie, raised by her Grandmother and about to go out into the world. Her
grandmother is happy to marry her off to a successful man whom she feels will provide
Janie with the version of the "good life" that she imagines. We realize, however, that
there are different answers to that ideal which will allow different people to feel fully actualized.
Fleeing that boring first marriage Janie takes up with a smooth talking suitor who works
hard and makes his own way in the world. He soon revitalizes a town and becomes the de facto
mayor and also the owner of the successful general store. Having no monetary concerns but
living a hollow existence as the shop keeper and second fiddle to her husbands grandiosity, Janie
knows she is falling short of her potential in life. She sticks by her marriage, however, until
her husband falls ill and passes away.
Financially comfortable, and not looking for love, she is after a time approached and wooed
by Tea Cake, and thus begins the third and at last fulfilling great relationship of her life. One
that is on equal footing with her partner, who is a savvy, scrappy guy who still remains
utterly and completely devoted to her in spite of some red herrings for the reader. We follow
some of their adventures and watch Janie grow and realize her happiness that she knew could be hers.
A great book with a number of moving and insightful passages. Explores important aspects of the
drive for personal achievement, loyalty, hard work, and the definition of success. Certainly
worth your time if it's new to you.
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