Zora Neale Hurston was a pioneering African American writer and folklorist who is best known for her contributions to the Harlem Renaissance. Born in 1891 in Notasulga, Alabama, Hurston was the fifth of eight children in a family of sharecroppers. Despite facing significant challenges and discrimination due to her race, Hurston was able to overcome these obstacles and achieve great success in her career as a writer.
One of Hurston's most famous works is the short story "Drenched in Light," which was published in her collection "Their Eyes Were Watching God." The story is set in Eatonville, Florida, a town founded by African Americans that was home to Hurston in her youth. It tells the story of Janie Crawford, a young woman who is struggling to find her place in the world and to understand her own identity.
At the beginning of the story, Janie is living with her grandmother, who is fiercely protective of her and tries to shield her from the harsh realities of the world. Despite her grandmother's efforts, Janie is exposed to the racism and sexism that were prevalent in the early 20th century, and she struggles to find her place in a society that is hostile to women and people of color.
Despite these challenges, Janie is determined to live her life on her own terms and to find her own way in the world. She leaves her grandmother's home and begins a journey of self-discovery, seeking out experiences and relationships that will help her to understand herself and her place in the world.
Throughout the story, Janie is "drenched in light," both literally and figuratively. On a literal level, the story is set in the Florida sunshine, and Janie is often described as being bathed in light. This light serves as a metaphor for Janie's own inner radiance and her quest for self-discovery. Despite the challenges and obstacles that she faces, Janie remains optimistic and hopeful, always striving to find the light in every situation.
In many ways, "Drenched in Light" is a story of hope and resilience, and it speaks to the enduring human spirit and the determination to overcome adversity and find one's place in the world. Hurston's writing is infused with her own experiences and observations, and she uses her storytelling skills to bring to life the struggles and triumphs of Janie and other African American women of her time.
Zora Neale Hurston was a trailblazer in the world of literature and a powerful voice for African American women. "Drenched in Light" is a testament to her talent and her ability to capture the beauty, resilience, and hope of the human spirit.