Take a story's temperature by studying its tone. Is it hopeful? Cynical? Snarky? Playful?
Lighthearted, Celebratory
Hurston's tone is initially one of lightheartedness; there is a happy go-lucky air around Joe and Missie that is often seen in their playful banter. Take it away, Joe:
Nope, sweetenin' is for us menfolks. Y'all pritty lil frail eels don't need nothin' lak dis. You too sweet already. (27)
The couple has fun playing, twisting, tickling and talking with each other. This is the side of a relationship that many people lose or forget about. Hurston takes joy in reveling (for a bit) in their young love without being over the top or corny.
Dark, Forgiving
The introduction of Slemmons into the text drastically changes the tone of the story. For the first time we see a superficial side to Joe. He thinks money and power makes a man great, which leads Missie to think if she gets some, Joe will be happier. When Joe catches Missie and Slemmons together, it's as if his world has blown apart:
A howling wind raced across his heart, but underneath its fury he heard his wife sobbing and Slemmons pleading for his life. Offering to buy it with all that he had. (72)
Sounds like a far cry from the sweetness and teasing we saw in him before.