It is possible that Hurston chose to tell the story within a framework to give Janie a voice in the novel. Had Hurston relied solely on a third person narrative, Janie would have had no voice. Using first person narrative in this framework proves that Janie has gained strength and independence as a result of her lifelong search for true love.
Gerasim has an ability to reach out to people. He is a simple man who is satisfied with what
he has and his position in life. In
connecting with people, he breaks down the walls that surround that person and
draws him out to the light helping them confront that which they fear.
