Spunk

In addition to her work as a writer of fiction, Hurston is also known for her work as an anthropologist and folklorist. In “Spunk,” she follows in the footsteps of authors like Mark Twain in presenting idiomatic language reflective of historical and regional speaking patterns. Examples include the use of double negatives, as when Walter says, “Ah ain’t heered ‘bout none” (60), referring to the bobcat; the use of symbolic expressions, such as Elijah’s description of Spunk and Lena walking “brassy as tacks” (54); and the use of colloquial words or phrases, as when Elijah answers, “Nope, not a frazzlin’ thing” to one of Walter’s inquiries (58). Hurston’s attention to the details of speech pays dividends in her decision to present the story primarily through hearsay and dialogue, adding humor and emotion. “Spunk” powerfully demonstrates the value of preserving language as a cultural artifact and, simultaneously, its merit as a literary device. 

Anaphora involves the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of adjacent clauses. Hurston notably employs anaphora to emphasize Spunk’s restored sense of freedom after the trial:

A clear case of self-defense, the trial was a short one, and Spunk walked out of the court house to freedom again.