The theme of self-discovery is central to Their Eyes Were Watching God, as Janie Crawford embarks on a journey to find her own identity and voice. Through her relationships with three different husbands, Janie learns about love, independence, and her own desires, ultimately achieving a sense of self-realization and empowerment.

Janie's first marriage to Logan Killicks is arranged by her grandmother, Nanny, who prioritizes security over love. Janie feels unfulfilled and trapped, realizing that financial stability cannot replace emotional connection. Her dissatisfaction with Logan leads her to leave him for Joe Starks, who promises a life filled with romance and adventure. However, Joe's controlling nature stifles Janie's independence, as he treats her as a possession rather than a partner. Janie's realization that she is merely an ornament in Joe's life marks a critical step in her journey towards self-discovery.

Janie's relationship with Tea Cake represents a turning point in her quest for self-discovery. Unlike her previous marriages, Tea Cake offers Janie a partnership where she feels valued and free to express herself. They work together and enjoy each other's company, allowing Janie to recapture the vitality of her youth. Tea Cake's love and respect enable Janie to embrace her desires and assert her independence, leading to a deeper understanding of her own identity.

Throughout her journey, Janie learns to speak up for herself and reject societal expectations. Her storytelling to her friend Pheoby reflects her acquired voice and agency, as she shares her life experiences and asserts her own narrative. Janie's journey to the horizon and back symbolizes her self-discovery and empowerment, as she ultimately lives life on her own terms.