What’s Up With the Ending?

The ending completes a circular narrative arch in "The Gilded Six-Bits." The story begins with Joe coming home and throwing silver dollars through the door for Missie, and it ends on a similar note:

"Joe Banks, Ah hear you chunkin' money in mah do'way. You wait till Ah got mah strength back and Ah'm gointer fix you for dat." (137)

After dealing with lies and deceit, adultery and betrayal, Missie and Joe are able to move on—thanks to the arrival of a brand new baby boy. How do we know this? We know because in the last scene of the story, Joe comes back with presents for both his wife and son. Oh, and because he throws silver dollars through the open door, just like he used to do. It's a fairytale ending for two people who seem to have been made for each other, and leaves us feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.