Hurston's work is a different kind of bildungsroman than those we have previously read. Janie, the protagonist, experiences growth and maturity (as is typical in bildungsroman novels), but does not end up finding the love she had always desired.
Janie's third marriage ends in pain, trial, and heartache. While she certainly loved Tea Cake, he still abused her and felt the need to possess her. Janie never found the relationship built on equality and understanding that Lucy found in the last reading. Janie ends up alone, reciting her live's story to a friend.
Although her marriages were not successful, Janie grew through all of her experiences. She learned to develop her innerself, that can remain secure when she had to endure abuse and pain. Janie learned to protect herself, and ultimately saves her own life by bravely turning a gun at Tea Cake when he threatens her life. Janie's growth is obvious. Even though she ends up alone, she also ends up a stronger individual who has found peace with herself. She is an inspiration to Pheoby, who now desires more in her life after hearing her life story. Janie will always value the ideal of love, but doesn't need a man to be fulfilled.
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