SC-Theme+and+Their+Eyes+Were+Watching+God

As Janie grows as an adult she reflects on her upbringing with Nanny and recalls it as being very controlled. Due to this Janie has found herself inexperienced in multiple fashions. She learns to despise her Nanny for this. "Here Nanny had taken the biggest thing God ever made, the horizon--for no matter how far a person can go the horizon is still way beyond you--and pinched it in to such a little bit of a thing that she could tie it about her grandmother's neck tight enough to choke her. She hated the old woman who had twisted her so in the name of love." (p.89) The broad spectrum of learning Janie was offered in various times of her childhood was restricted by Nanny's limitations. This strict plan led to a lack of understanding and progress in Janie's life. It has set her back so much so that it will affect the rest of her life.

Although Nanny is looking after Janie's best interests she fails to understand the importance of her granddaughter's need to make her own decisions. She is unwilling to allow Janie to make mistakes in order for her to learn and grow from them. She even goes as far as to choose a husband for her. "Tain't Logan Killicks Ah wants you to have, baby, it's protection." (p.15) She wants to give Janie what she never received. In the process, she overlooks the desires of Janie in marriage. By stripping Janie of input and control Nanny raises her to play life safe which eventually causes the detest between Janie and herself.

Although too extensive, the security that Nanny provides should be obliged by Janie. Nanny has exhausted herself to provide quality shelter and security for her. "Ah raked and scraped and bought dis lil piece uh land so you wouldn't have to stay in de white folks' yard and tuck yo' head befo' other chillun at school." (p.19) Janie takes pride in her grandmother's courage and determination. Nanny's knowledge of the outside world and it's cruelties gives reason for her control of Janie. Janie breaks umbrella that Nanny has placed above her by utilizing the instruction Nanny gave her.