Page 84 displays Hurston's use of syntax, word choice, tone and sound devices.
Syntax: Hurston has a unique style to her writing. In the long paragraph at the beginning of the page, Hurston uses straight forward and simplistic sentence structure. The word death is mentioned many times, and the short sentences are abrupt. The flow of this passage is choppy and the passage follows the same pattern throughout. This type of sentence structure is used to show death's suddenness and abruptness.
Word Choice: Hurston starts off the passage with the word, "so", which is an informal word. Also, Hurston says that death, "Stands watchful and motionless all day with his sword drawn back" (Hurston 84), she could have said death is waiting to striking at any moment, but decides to provide an image of how death can occur anytime. In the passage, Janie refers to Joe as Jody. Hurston does this because Joe prefers to be called Jody. Also, being calling him Jody is more affectionate.
Tone: The tone of this passage starts off being saddening because of the repetition of the word, death. Also, Janie attempts to resolve the problems with Jody despite the circumstances, but Jody gives her a cold look, showing he doesn't want to talk. This creates an upsetting tone because Janie's relationship with Jody is deteriorating and he is sick.
Sound Device: One of the sound devices used in this passage is alliteration, "He stands in his high house" ( Hurston, 84). This signifies deaths power and the repetition of "h" is somewhat abrupt like death itself. In a way, death is watching over us all like God, which is likely why it is capitalized.
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