What commentary on forgiveness, reconciliation, and/or acceptance does the story contain? Does Hurston have a commentary on the role of any of these within an intimate relationship such as a marriage?
Throughout the story, forgiveness is subtle and is a process that takes lots of time. When Joe first caught Missy May with Slemmons, Joe does not act with clear anger or hate. Instead, Joe reacts by going through his normal life without displaying any sort of affection to Missy May. It is important to note that during this time, Joe did not leave his wife. Joe values his marriage with Missy May very highly, despite her mistake, they are still together. This act may speak volumes as to how Hurston feels towards marriages. Hurston may believe that marriage should not be ended when one person makes a mistake. Forgiveness is seen when the baby is introduced to the story. Joe seemingly starts the old tradition of dropping coins, which represents his forgiveness.
To add on, throughout their rough patch, Joe continuously use the gilded coin whenever Missie provided him anything. When she cooked a meal for him or have sex with him, he would give her the coin. Joe’s message is clear in how he still isn’t forgiving of the incident and highlights how love cannot be bought . However, Joe finally forgives her by using the gilded coin to purchase something real for Missie, symbolizing how strong their love is and Joe’s willingness to let go.
I feel that Hurston wanted to put together a story where the ending wasn’t as bad as the climax. She probably wanted to portray a relationship as strong as Joe and Missie May’s to be a possible one despite the betrayal in the marriage. Marriage is a strong commitment where trust cannot be broken, but for her to direct these characters to put aside what had happened and to rekindle their marriage, she essentially says that no matter the obstacles and mistakes, forgiveness takes time but it’s needed, even if it’s hard.