Zora Neale Hurston's Use of Language in "Spunk"

Zora Neale Hurston's short story, "Spunk," immerses the reader in a vivid portrayal of a community through her distinctive use of language. The narrative unfolds in the voices of the characters, employing a broken English dialect that, while initially challenging to grasp, contributes to the story's mystique. "Spunk" narrates the tale of a man who steals another's wife, commits murder, and ultimately faces a tragic fate at the sawmill. The intricate language used by the characters not only establishes the story's setting but also provides insight into why the villagers turn to voodoo to explain the unfolding events.

The Evocative Language Setting the Stage

The story opens with Elijah Mosley exclaiming, "Looka theah folkses!" (8). This phrase immediately reveals the characters' lack of education and suggests a small, backwoods town. When the imposing Spunk Banks strolls down the village street with Lena Kanty, the atmosphere becomes charged with anticipation. Coming from a large city, one might not expect such a reaction to a couple walking down the street.

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However, in this close-knit community, it signals trouble. The store, a central hub where everyone gathers, becomes the focal point for the unfolding drama.

The dialogue inside the store reflects the villagers' awareness of the brewing conflict between Spunk and Joe Kanty. The men's subtle remarks and winks indicate the underlying tension. Elijah's seemingly friendly inquiry about Joe's wife serves as a veiled provocation: "Say, Joe, how's everything up yo' way? How's yo' wife?" (24-25). The dialogue skillfully reveals the town's knowledge of Lena's involvement with Spunk, intensifying the conflict.

The narrative draws readers into the story by evoking empathy for Joe, whose pride is wounded.

The Unraveling Conflict and Introduction of Voodoo

As the plot advances, the conflict escalates. Spunk calmly attributes Joe's death to self-defense, leading to a swift trial and Spunk's release. Now, with Joe gone, the focus shifts to Spunk and Lena's relationship. Hurston introduces symbolism, hinting at the supernatural through a black bobcat that Spunk perceives as Joe returning from Hell. This sets the stage for the voodoo elements that will play a crucial role in the story's resolution.

The villagers' belief in Joe's vengeful spirit gains prominence. When Spunk meets his demise at the sawmill, Elijah and others attribute it to Joe's revenge. The intertwined themes of revenge and supernatural elements add depth to the narrative. The language, though criticized for its dialect, becomes a powerful tool in conveying the villagers' worldview, where voodoo is a plausible explanation for Spunk's tragic fate.

Critical Reception and Language as a Window

Zora Neale Hurston faced criticism from fellow African American writers, with Richard Wright likening her use of dialect to a minstrel show catering to a white audience. However, considering the context of the Harlem Renaissance, Hurston's approach can be seen as a reflection of the societal perceptions of African Americans during that era. The Harlem Renaissance aimed to redefine these perceptions, and Hurston's dialect, though contentious, provides a unique window into the community she portrays.

While some, like Alain Locke, praised Hurston's linguistic style for its poetic quality and authentic dialect, it remains a point of debate. Hurston's exploration of the community's language allows readers to enter their world, gaining a nuanced understanding of their beliefs, conflicts, and the impact of voodoo on their lives.

Conclusion: Language as a Narrative Device

In "Spunk," Zora Neale Hurston's use of language serves as a compelling narrative device. The broken English dialect, though criticized, brings the characters and their community to life. The language becomes a vehicle for conveying the tensions, conflicts, and supernatural elements within the story. As the plot unfolds, the reader is drawn into the intricacies of the characters' lives, making "Spunk" a rich exploration of a small town's dynamics, beliefs, and the consequences of revenge.