How and why does Hurston incorporate the process of giving great value to seemingly small things (e.g. gifts, personal foibles or tendencies, inside jokes, games) into the story?

Hurston gives value to these seemingly small things throughout the story to reveal the intricacies of a relationship. Each and every relationship is different. Every couple has their own inside jokes or games that they play which is unique to them. This is clearly seen within the story with Joe and Missie May’s weekend routine. Hurston’s detailed explanations regarding the couple’s relationship gives a human element that the reader can relate to. Hurston’s buildup of the relationship through these characterizations ends up giving a greater effect to the introduction of infidelity within the relationship.