Introduction
Zora Neale Hurston’s short story, “The Gilded Six-Bits,” is a rich tapestry of symbolism that enhances the narrative and deepens the reader’s understanding of the characters and their relationships. Set in a small town during the early 20th century, the narrative revolves around the lives of Joe and Missie May, a young African American couple whose seemingly idyllic marriage is disrupted by an unexpected event. Through the use of symbols, the author explores themes of love, betrayal, and materialism.
Symbolic Analysis
Money
Money is a key symbol in the plot of this story. It symbolizes success and is also a metaphor for emotional currency in relationships. The main character, Joe, works hard to care for his wife, Missie May, and lavishes her with presents.
Joe’s life falls apart when he uncovers her cheating with Slemmons, a wealthy outsider who flaunts his money about town. It is depicted in the following quote, “Nobody ain’t going to be chuckin’ money at me and Ah not do ’em nothin’” (Hurston 1012). When money is used to entice Missie May away from their peaceful existence together, it becomes a symbol of treachery.
Gold
Gold is also an important symbol in “The Gilded Six-Bits”. It is symbolic of both material abundance and cleanliness in life. Missie May is captivated when Slemmons pays for his goods at Joe’s store with gold coins. She falls in love with the gleaming metal and links it with wealth and splendor. This obsession, however, blinds her to the genuine worth of love and commitment that Joe provides her. As Missie May values financial items above true devotion, gold symbolizes superficiality.
Conclusion
Overall, Zora Neale Hurston expertly uses symbols to enhance her novel The Gilded Six-Bits. Within relationships, money represents both tangible riches and emotional currency. Gold depicts materialism and purity while also emphasizing the pitfalls of superficiality. By delving into these deeper layers of meaning through symbolism, the writer creates a multi-dimensional narrative that resonates with readers long after they have finished reading the story.
Work Cited
Hurston, Zora Neale. “The Gilded Six-Bits.” 1933. 1011-1019. Print.