Living in poverty profoundly influenced the themes in Zora Neale Hurston's works. Her experiences growing up in a poor African American community shaped her understanding of cultural identity and resilience. Hurston's narratives often highlight the struggles and joys of everyday life, emphasizing the importance of community and cultural heritage. The adversity she faced fueled her desire to document the African American experience, capturing voices often marginalized in literature. Employing vernacular language and rich storytelling, Hurston crafted works that resonated with authenticity and fervor, advocating for recognition and appreciation of her community’s humanity and complexity.