Joe Starks upholds Janie as having the highest position any wife could ask for: the "mayor's wife" (page 60), but views her as being ungrateful. This is similar to the old phrase "money can't buy happiness". The way Starks sees it, Janie is in a "high chair" - a position that "too many women would be glad to be in," yet all she does is sit and look "sullen." (page 62) Janie would much rather be an equal to her husband than to be a product of his success. Joe Starks would rather Janie be a trophy around the store than a partner by his side. This contrast is evident in every disagreement that comes about. Arguments that usually end in Janie pointing out Joe's present fault, Joe explaining why what she said is not a fault, and Janie agreeing with him even though "She didn't change her mind but she agreed with her mouth," anyway.(page 63)
The phrase "money can't buy happiness" is very similar to Janie and Joe Starks' marriage because Janie's town position isn't making her happy. In actual fact she would much rather be an ordinary townswoman if it meant that she could voice her opinion freely around her husband, and more importantly, to her husband. All Janie received from her husband was "what money could buy" (page 76), when really she didn't ask for much, especially not materialistic things. And, ultimately, her true desires built up and finally forced her to do what she "had never done before...thrust herself into the conversation." (page 75)
'Well, it would seem that the mayor's wife is entirely "too moufy."' (page 75)
I feel like Joe and Nanny would've gotten along great. Nanny wasn't concerned with the feelings that would be involved in a relationship she just wanted Janie to be in one. Neither Joe or Nanny genuinely care about how Janie feels. Joe has power in his town and essentially over his wife. Yes he can buy her whatever and she has the highest title for a woman in the town. However, what good is the title if you don't enjoy having it ? Great post Hune.
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