Pheoby Watson
Quote 7
[Pheoby]: "Gal, you sho looks good. You looks like youse yo’ own daughter." They both laughed. "Even wid dem overhalls on, you shows yo’ womanhood." (1.30)
Even at age 40 and with men’s clothing on, Janie seems to be attractive enough to draw the gaze of not only her best friend but also the jealous gossipers on the porch. Pheoby shows the sincerity of her friendship by complimenting Janie on how good she looks, instead of attacking her with bitter words. Although Pheoby might envy Janie’s appearance at some subconscious level, she does not let it become so all-consuming that it compromises their friendship.