“Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

“Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston, published in 1925 in the collection The New Negro, ispowerful short story showcases his masterful storytelling and her ability to capture the essence of African American culture and dialect. The tale of Spunk, a charismatic and fearless railroad worker, explores themes of masculinity, community, and the consequences of one’s actions. Through its vivid characters, rich dialogue, and poignant themes, “Spunk” exemplifies Hurston’s unique literary style and her contribution to the Harlem Renaissance.

Main Events in “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

Literary Devices in “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

Allegory	Joe Kanty’s death symbolizes the consequences of jealousy and cowardice.	Allegory is a narrative in which characters, events, and settings symbolize abstract ideas, often with a moral or political message.
Alliteration	“He rides that log down at saw-mill jus’ like he struts ’round wid another man’s wife-jus’ don’t give a kitty.”	Alliteration is the repetition of the same initial consonant sound in neighboring words.
Foreshadowing	Spunk’s prediction that Joe will come back to confront him foreshadows the final confrontation.	Foreshadowing hints at future events in the story, building suspense and adding depth to the narrative.
Hyperbole	“Spunk died too wicket-died cussin’ he did.”	Hyperbole is an exaggeration used for emphasis or effect.
Imagery	“Dusk crept in from the woods.”	Imagery uses sensory details to create vivid mental images for the reader.
Irony	Joe Kanty’s bravery in confronting Spunk contrasts with his eventual demise.	Irony is when the opposite of what is expected occurs, often leading to humor, surprise, or a deeper understanding of the story’s themes.
Metaphor	“Spunk came walking leisurely, with his big black Stetson set at the same rakish angle.”	Metaphor is a figure of speech that suggests a resemblance between two unlike things, without using “like” or “as”.
Onomatopoeia	“a big black bob-cat, black all over, you hear me, black, walked round and round that house and howled like forty”	Onomatopoeia is the use of words that imitate the sounds associated with the objects or actions they refer to.
Personification	“a big black bob-cat, black all over, you hear me, black, walked round and round that house and howled like forty”	Personification attributes human qualities or characteristics to non-human entities, often to create vivid imagery or enhance the narrative.
Repetition	“An’ Ah b’leeve Joe pushed ‘im mahself.”	Repetition is the deliberate use of the same words, phrases, or structures to create emphasis or reinforce an idea.
Simile	“like he wants to say somethin’ an’ can’t.”	Simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using “like” or “as”.
Symbolism	The bob-cat symbolizes Joe Kanty’s presence and revenge from beyond the grave.	Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities beyond their literal meaning, often adding depth and layers of meaning to the story.
Allusion	“A clear case of self-defense, the trial was a short one, and Spunk walked out of the court house to freedom again.”	Allusion is a reference to a well-known person, place, event, or work of art, often used to add depth or convey a certain meaning to the reader.
Flashback	Spunk’s recollection of Joe Kanty’s initial encounter with Lena recalls events from the past.	Flashback is a device that interrupts the chronological sequence of a narrative to provide information about events that happened earlier.
Foil	Joe Kanty’s timidity contrasts with Spunk’s fearlessness.	A foil is a character who contrasts with another character in order to highlight particular qualities of the other character.
Oxymoron	“Spunk came walking leisurely, with his big black Stetson set at the same rakish angle.”	An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms for emphasis or rhetorical effect.
Parallelism	“Me an’ Skint Miller got him off but it was too late.Anybody could see that.The fust thing he said wuz: ‘He pushed me, ‘Lige-the dirty hound pushed me in the back!’-He was spittin’ blood at ev’ry breath.”	Parallelism is the use of similar grammatical structures or phrases to express related ideas, often creating rhythm and balance in the text.
Synecdoche	“The cooling board consisted of three sixteen-inch boards on saw horses, a dingy sheet was his shroud.”	Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part of something is used to represent the whole or vice versa.
Tone	The somber tone of the men as they discuss Spunk’s death contrasts with their earlier levity.	Tone is the author’s attitude toward the subject matter or audience, conveyed through the language and style of the writing.
Metonymy	“Elijah did not answer until they had left the lighted store and were strolling down the dark street.”	Metonymy is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is substituted with another closely related word or phrase, often used to convey a broader meaning or association.

Characterization in “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

Major Characters:

• Spunk Banks: Spunk Banks is depicted as a larger-than-life figure in the village, exuding an aura of fearlessness and confidence. His physical presence and bold demeanor command attention from those around him. When faced with challenges or danger, Spunk confronts them head-on without hesitation, earning him the admiration of some and the envy of others. For instance, when Spunk rides the dangerous log-carriage at the sawmill despite others’ fear, it demonstrates his courage and disregard for danger. His actions throughout the story showcase a man unafraid to assert himself, even in the face of adversity.
• Lena Kanty: Lena Kanty is portrayed as a woman caught in the middle of a tumultuous situation. Her loving demeanor towards Spunk contrasts with the tension between him and her husband, Joe Kanty. Lena’s emotions fluctuate between fear, love, and confusion as she navigates the complexities of her relationships. Her tears and lamentations serve as a reflection of the turmoil within her, torn between loyalty to her husband and her affection for Spunk. Lena’s character represents the emotional heart of the story, embodying the consequences of passion and betrayal.
• Joe Kanty: Joe Kanty is characterized as a man consumed by jealousy and insecurity. Despite his physical stature, Joe is portrayed as timid and hesitant, especially when it comes to confronting Spunk. His attempts to assert dominance over his wife, Lena, are feeble and ultimately futile. Joe’s actions, such as brandishing a razor in a failed attempt to intimidate Spunk, highlight his lack of courage and resolve. Even in death, Joe’s presence looms large over the narrative, serving as a cautionary tale of the destructive power of jealousy and pride.

Minor Characters:

• Elijah Mosley: Elijah Mosley serves as a bystander and commentator on the events unfolding in the village. His gleeful observations and casual interactions with other characters add depth to the story’s setting. Elijah’s mocking tone towards Joe Kanty and his playful banter with other villagers provide insight into the community’s dynamics and attitudes towards Spunk and Lena’s relationship.
• Walter Thomas: Walter Thomas is depicted as a voice of reason and skepticism amidst the village gossip. His reluctance to fully embrace Spunk’s actions and intentions reflects a more cautious perspective. Walter’s questioning of Spunk’s motives and the potential consequences of his behavior offer a counterbalance to the admiration and awe that others express towards Spunk’s boldness.
• Skint Miller: Skint Miller’s brief appearance in the story highlights the camaraderie among the men in the village. His presence during Joe Kanty’s confrontation with Spunk underscores the community’s reaction to the unfolding drama. Skint’s involvement in attempting to assist Joe after his altercation with Spunk illustrates the interconnectedness of the villagers and their willingness to come to each other’s aid, even in times of strife.

Major Themes in “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

Writing Style in “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

1. Folkloric and Vernacular Language: Hurston uses folkloric and vernacular language to create a sense of authenticity and to capture the dialect and culture of the African American community in the rural South.
2. Third-Person Narrative: The story is told in the third person, which allows for an objective perspective and creates a sense of detachment, highlighting the tragic events that unfold.
3. Stream-of-Consciousness: Hurston employs stream-of-consciousness narration, which creates a sense of immediacy and intimacy, drawing the reader into the thoughts and feelings of the characters.
4. Imagery and Symbolism: The story is rich in imagery and symbolism, with vivid descriptions of nature, animals, and supernatural elements, which add depth and meaning to the narrative.
5. Dialogue and Dialect: Hurston uses dialogue and dialect to bring the characters to life, capturing the unique voice and language of the African American community in the rural South.
6. Irony and Foreshadowing: The story employs irony and foreshadowing, creating a sense of tension and suspense, as the reader is aware of the impending doom that awaits the characters.
7. Concise and Direct Prose: Hurston’s writing is concise and direct, with a focus on action and dialogue, which creates a sense of pace and momentum, propelling the story forward.
8. Use of African American Culture and Folklore: The story incorporates elements of African American culture and folklore, such as the supernatural and the use of dialect, which adds depth and richness to the narrative.
9. Critique of Toxic Masculinity: The story critiques toxic masculinity, highlighting the destructive consequences of patriarchal power and dominance.
10. Exploration of Human Nature: The story explores human nature, delving into themes of love, jealousy, revenge, and redemption, creating a nuanced and complex portrayal of humanity.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

Literary Theory	Interpretation	References
1. Feminist Theory	Interpretation: Feminist theory focuses on the portrayal and treatment of women in literature, examining power dynamics, gender roles, and the representation of female characters. In “Spunk,” Lena Kanty’s character can be analyzed through a feminist lens. Her agency and autonomy are challenged by the expectations and actions of the male characters, particularly her husband, Joe Kanty, and Spunk Banks. Lena’s journey reflects the struggle of women in a patriarchal society, torn between societal norms and personal desires.*	Hooks, Bell. “Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center.” South End Press, 1984.<br> Showalter, Elaine. “The New Feminist Criticism: Essays on Women, Literature and Theory.” Pantheon Books, 1985.
2. Marxist Theory	Interpretation: Marxist theory examines literature through the lens of social class, economic relations, and power structures. In “Spunk,” the dynamics between the characters can be analyzed in terms of class struggle and economic disparity. Spunk Banks, as a confident and assertive character, can be seen as representing the proletariat, while Joe Kanty, who feels threatened by Spunk’s actions, symbolizes the bourgeoisie. The story explores themes of exploitation, labor, and the impact of socioeconomic factors on individual agency and relationships.*	Eagleton, Terry. “Marxism and Literary Criticism.” Routledge, 1976.<br> Jameson, Fredric. “Marxism and Form: Twentieth-Century Dialectical Theories of Literature.” Princeton University Press, 1971.
3. Psychoanalytic Theory	Interpretation: Psychoanalytic theory delves into the unconscious mind, desires, and motivations of characters, exploring themes of repression, sexuality, and identity. In “Spunk,” the interactions between the characters can be analyzed through a psychoanalytic lens, particularly the love triangle involving Spunk Banks, Lena Kanty, and Joe Kanty. Each character’s actions and emotions can be interpreted as manifestations of their unconscious desires and conflicts. The story’s resolution, with Spunk’s death and Lena’s grief, can be seen as a result of unresolved psychological tensions within the characters.*	Freud, Sigmund. “The Interpretation of Dreams.” Basic Books, 1913.<br> Lacan, Jacques. “Écrits: The First Complete Edition in English.” W. W. Norton & Company, 2006.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

Topic	Questions	Thesis Statements
1. Power Dynamics and Gender Roles	– How do power dynamics and gender roles influence the relationships between the characters in “Spunk”? – How does Zora Neale Hurston portray the struggles of women in a patriarchal society? – In what ways do the male characters exert control over Lena Kanty’s agency and autonomy?	In “Spunk,” Zora Neale Hurston explores power dynamics and gender roles, depicting the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society through the characters of Lena Kanty and her interactions with Spunk Banks and Joe Kanty. Through the portrayal of these characters, Hurston highlights the ways in which societal norms and expectations impact individual agency and relationships, shedding light on the complexities of gender dynamics in the early 20th-century South.
2. Conflict and Betrayal	– How does the conflict between Spunk Banks and Joe Kanty drive the narrative of “Spunk”? – What role does betrayal play in shaping the relationships between the characters? – How does Zora Neale Hurston depict the consequences of jealousy and revenge in the story?	“Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston explores themes of conflict and betrayal, depicting the repercussions of jealousy and revenge in a small Southern community. Through the tumultuous relationships between Spunk Banks, Lena Kanty, and Joe Kanty, Hurston illustrates the destructive power of envy and the consequences of betrayal. The story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the complexities of human emotions and the moral ambiguity of seeking retribution.
3. Social Class and Economic Struggle	– How do social class and economic disparities influence the characters’ interactions and decisions in “Spunk”? – In what ways does Zora Neale Hurston depict the struggles of the working class in the story? – How does Spunk Banks represent resilience and agency in the face of socioeconomic challenges?	In “Spunk,” Zora Neale Hurston explores the impact of social class and economic struggle on the lives of characters in a small Southern community. Through the portrayal of Spunk Banks and other working-class individuals, Hurston sheds light on the resilience and agency of those marginalized by society. The story highlights the complexities of socioeconomic factors and their influence on individual agency, relationships, and community dynamics.
4. Psychological Conflicts and Desires	– What psychological conflicts and desires drive the actions of the characters in “Spunk”? – How do unconscious motivations and repressed emotions shape the narrative? – In what ways does Zora Neale Hurston explore themes of identity, desire, and repression in the story?	“Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston delves into the psychological conflicts and desires of its characters, exploring themes of identity, desire, and repression. Through the interactions between Spunk Banks, Lena Kanty, and Joe Kanty, Hurston examines the complexities of human emotions and the unconscious motivations that drive individuals to act in unexpected ways. The story serves as a psychological study, revealing the inner workings of the human psyche and the complexities of human relationships.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

• Q1: What is the central conflict in “Spunk”?
• The central conflict in “Spunk” is the love triangle between Spunk, Lena, and Joe Kanty. Spunk, a powerful and dominant man, takes Lena from Joe, leading to a confrontation that ends in Joe’s death. This conflict drives the plot and explores themes of toxic masculinity, power dynamics, and the consequences of actions. For example, when Spunk takes Lena’s arm and walks off with her, Joe is left standing alone, highlighting the power imbalance and foreshadowing the tragic events that follow.
• Q2: How does Hurston use supernatural elements in the story?
• Hurston uses supernatural elements, such as the black bob-cat and Joe’s ghost, to add a layer of tension and foreshadowing to the story. The black bob-cat, a bad omen, appears before Spunk’s death, while Joe’s ghost haunts Spunk, symbolizing the consequences of his actions. These elements also highlight the blurred lines between reality and the supernatural in African American folklore. For example, when the black bob-cat appears, Spunk is unable to shoot it, showing his vulnerability and the supernatural forces at work.
• Q3: What role do gender dynamics play in the story?
• Gender dynamics play a significant role in “Spunk”, particularly in the portrayal of toxic masculinity and the objectification of women. Spunk’s dominance over Lena and Joe is evident, and the other men in the village admire his strength and courage. Lena, on the other hand, is caught between her love for Spunk and her loyalty to Joe, highlighting the powerlessness of women in a patriarchal society. For example, when Spunk takes Lena from Joe, she is unable to resist, showcasing the limited agency women have in the story.
• Q4: How does the story critique toxic masculinity?
• The story critiques toxic masculinity through Spunk’s character, who embodies the destructive consequences of patriarchal power and dominance. Spunk’s actions lead to Joe’s death and ultimately his own demise, highlighting the devastating effects of toxic masculinity. The story also shows how the other men in the village perpetuate this culture by admiring Spunk’s strength and courage. For example, when Spunk kills Joe, the men gather around, seemingly impressed by his actions, demonstrating how toxic masculinity is condoned and encouraged in their community.

Literary Works Similar to “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

1. “The Eatonville Anthology” by Zora Neale Hurston: A collection of short stories by Hurston set in Eatonville, Florida, offering vivid portraits of African American life in the early 20th century with themes of community, resilience, and everyday struggles.
2. “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt: This short story explores themes of race, identity, and deception as a young slave attempts to escape to freedom with the help of his white master’s son.
3. “Drenched in Light” by Zora Neale Hurston: In this story, Hurston explores themes of identity, ambition, and self-discovery as a young woman navigates her aspirations in the face of societal expectations and familial obligations.
4. “The Comet” by W.E.B. Du Bois: Du Bois’s short story delves into themes of existential crisis, racial inequality, and human connection as two survivors of a catastrophic event grapple with their differences and shared humanity.
5. “The Conjure-Man Dies” by Rudolph Fisher: Set in Harlem, this detective story features Dr. John Archer, the first African American detective in literature, as he investigates a murder intertwined with themes of magic, superstition, and social commentary.

Suggested Readings about/on “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

• Redling, Erik. “The Making of Lists: Zora Neale Hurston’s Literary Experiments with Glossaries of Southern Rural and Northern Urban African American Terms and Expressions.” Journal of the Short Story in English. Les Cahiers de la nouvelle 73 (2019): 97-120.
• Davis, Doris. “” De Talkin’Game”: The Creation of Psychic Space in Selected Short Fiction of Zora Neale Hurston.” Tulsa Studies in Women’s Literature 26.2 (2007): 269-286.
• Kaplan, Carla. “Zora Neale Hurston (1891–1960).” The Columbia Companion to the Twentieth-Century American Short Story. Columbia University Press, 2004. 305-310.
• Zaidman, Laura M. “Zora Neale Hurston.” American Short-Story Writers, 1910-1945 (1988).
• Zaidman, Laura M. “Zora Neale Hurston.” American Short-Story Writers, 1910-1945: First Series, edited by Bobby Ellen Kimbel, Gale, 1989. Dictionary of Literary Biography Vol. 86. Gale Literature Resource Center, link.gale.com/apps/doc/H1200000288/LitRC?u=anon~c68c50c7&sid=googleScholar&xid=692694b5. Accessed 29 Apr. 2024.
• https://www.britannica.com/biography/Zora-Neale-Hurston

Representative Quotations from “Spunk” by Zora Neale Hurston

Quotation	Context	Theorization
“A GIANT of a brown-skinned man sauntered up the one street of the Village and out into the palmetto thickets with a small pretty woman clinging lovingly to his arm.”	This quotation introduces the character of Spunk Banks, portraying him as a physically imposing figure. His presence commands attention and sets the stage for the unfolding drama involving him, Lena, and Joe Kanty.	From a psychoanalytical perspective, Spunk’s physical stature and confidence may symbolize his dominance and assertiveness in the community. His ability to attract Lena despite her marriage to Joe reflects deeper desires and power dynamics within the social context.
“But that’s one thing Ah likes about Spunk Banks-he ain’t skeered of nothin’ on God’s green footstoo1-nothin)!”	This statement by Walter Thomas highlights Spunk’s fearless nature, exemplified by his willingness to take risks such as riding the dangerous log-carriage at the sawmill. Spunk’s bravery earns him respect and admiration from the other men in the community.	From a feminist perspective, Spunk’s fearlessness might be viewed as a manifestation of traditional masculine ideals of strength and courage. His defiance of societal norms and expectations reflects a form of resistance against oppressive structures, although it also perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes.
“Joe Kanty laid down a nickel and stumbled out into the street.”	This quotation occurs after Elijah Mosley teases Joe about his wife’s whereabouts, causing Joe visible distress. Joe’s reaction suggests feelings of humiliation and insecurity regarding his relationship with Lena, exacerbated by Spunk’s overt displays of affection towards her.	Through a sociological lens, Joe’s behavior can be interpreted as a response to social pressure and expectations regarding masculinity and honor. His inability to assert himself against Spunk’s advances reflects broader power dynamics within the community, where individuals like Spunk wield influence based on their perceived dominance and authority.
“He didn’t bang it, just eased it out of his hand silently and fiddled with his suspender buckle.”	This description captures Joe’s reaction to Elijah’s taunting, revealing his internal turmoil and sense of emasculation. Joe’s silent resignation and physical gestures convey his feelings of powerlessness and defeat in the face of Spunk’s perceived superiority.	Through a Marxist lens, Joe’s predicament can be understood as a consequence of economic and social inequalities within the community. His lack of agency and self-worth stem from his marginalized position in society, where individuals like Spunk hold disproportionate power and privilege. Joe’s struggle to assert himself reflects broader themes of class struggle and exploitation inherent in the socio-economic structure.
“Spunk turned on his heel and sauntered away to where he knew his love wept in fear for him and no man stopped him.”	This moment underscores Spunk’s confidence and autonomy, as he defies societal expectations and takes control of the situation. Despite the potential consequences of his actions, Spunk remains resolute in his pursuit of Lena, demonstrating his disregard for social norms and authority figures.	Through a postcolonial lens, Spunk’s defiance can be interpreted as a form of resistance against hegemonic power structures and cultural norms imposed by the dominant group. His rejection of conventional morality and assertion of individual agency challenge the status quo, echoing broader themes of resistance and cultural identity within marginalized communities.
“If spirits kin fight, there’s a powerful tussle goin’ on some where ovah Jordan ’cause Ah b’leeve Joe’s ready for Spunk an’ ain’t skeered any more-yas, Ah b’leeve Joe pushed ‘im mahself.”	This statement by Elijah Mosley reflects the villagers’ superstitions and beliefs surrounding Joe’s death. Elijah suggests that Joe’s spirit may seek revenge against Spunk, implying a supernatural explanation for Spunk’s demise. The quotation underscores the community’s reliance on folklore and spirituality to make sense of tragic events.	From a cultural studies perspective, Elijah’s words highlight the role of folklore and superstition in shaping collective identity and understanding within the community. Beliefs in the supernatural serve as a means of coping with uncertainty and trauma, providing a framework for interpreting and attributing meaning to inexplicable phenomena.