Imagery of Trains
When John takes a train for the first time, he gets off at every stop. The presence of trains is extremely significant throughout the novel, so Hurston's early depictions of the physical qualities of trains at the time build up to climactic moments. Her choice to use imagery of trains is evident also in its comparison to how she writes about automobiles.
Imagery of School
John's ability to attend school sets him apart from his parents and early childhood. Hurston uses imagery to show how the school appears to John when he begins his education; she captures the sense of wonder he feels at the people gathered there to learn, and he learns words written out on the wall while looking at people more advanced than he is.
Imagery of Church
John begins preaching for a living, which causes a disconnect between how he is living his life and how others interpret his words. Hurston uses images to evoke a sense of space within the church, so the reader can understand the arrangement of individuals there. As the novel progresses, the imagery tracks how discord occurs.
Imagery of River
When John wants to marry Lucy, he helps her be able to get to school without fear. The river by her house is a place they can be together, and he kills a snake that had terrified her. Their youth is partially marked by the river, so Hurston uses imagery to demonstrate this.
