Journal #4

"This was the first time it happened, but after a while it got so common she ceased to be surprised. It was like a drug. In a way it was good because it reconciled her to things. She got so she received all things with the stolidness of the earth which soaks up urine and perfume with the same indifference." (77)

Syntax
The sentence "It was like a drug." is a clear use of syntax. It is a simple sentence surrounded by more complex sentences. This sentence serves to describe how Janie felt and the situation she was in. The simplicity exemplifies the feeling of apathy and not wanting to go into much detail. The simplicity also shows the apathetic effects of drugs which  is almost seen in this sentence.

Word Choice
The use of "urine and perfume" really helps the reader see the apathy even more. In this example, the earth is soaking up urine and perfume like it's the same thing because it does not care. Urine and perfume being almost completely different in description and quality, this example further shows the apathy Janie is feeling. To Janie, she no longer cares whether it is urine or perfume and sees them with indifference, for she has given up.

Tone
The tone in this passage is apathetic or tired. Through word choice the author is showing the high level of apathy in Janie. The author wants the reader to feel the same apathy through this passage to gain a better understanding of how Janie is feeling. There may also be a slight tone of sympathy. Feeling bad for Janie and how overwhelmed and done she is with her situation may be a goal for Hurston in this passage.

Sound Device
I think the "sh" sound used in the beginning of the last sentence may show the quietness of Janie. The sound "sh" indicates quiet and hush, as Janie is forced to be with Joe. By using this sound, Hurston shows how quiet and insignificant Janie is becoming: a quiet, inferior wife with no say in what she does.