Topic 9: Figurative language
Hurston’s writing is thick with language that draws us beyond the literal descriptions of people, places and events. Identify the novel’s figurative language and expand the meaning of the novel. For example, what does Janie mean when she says that her “life is like a great tree in leaf”? Discuss some notable examples of figurative language in the book. Pay special attention to the novel’s first page. How are these descriptions used figuratively: the road, ships, trees, the sun, eyes, time, God, dreams, judgment, speech, silence or mules? Click on the link below to share your thoughts.