Nocturne by C.J. Dennis (1930)
The narrative unfolds in a dimly lit urban setting, where the protagonist stands at a street corner, reflecting on the notorious reputation of the area known as Spadgers Lane. The atmosphere is thick with a sense of foreboding, as the protagonist recalls tales of past misdeeds and the dangers lurking in the shadows. Despite claims of reformation, the Lane still attracts unsavory characters, and the protagonist muses on the moral implications of witnessing someone on the brink of self-destruction. As the protagonist contemplates the nature of vice and virtue, a dubious figure approaches, attempting to con the protagonist with a sob story about being broke and needing money for fare home. The protagonist recognizes the ruse, feeling insulted by the audacity of the con artist. A confrontation ensues, with the protagonist physically restraining the would-be thief, leading to a moment of clarity about the nature of crime and morality. Just as the situation escalates, a parson intervenes, revealing that the supposed criminal is actually a farmer named Daniel Dunn, who has fallen victim to the city’s vices. The misunderstanding is cleared up, and the protagonist feels a mix of embarrassment and relief. The parson explains Dunn's plight, emphasizing the dangers of trusting the wrong people in the city. The protagonist reflects on the serendipity of the encounter, believing that had he not intervened, Dunn might have encountered real danger. The parson advises the protagonist to approach their next encounter with caution and diplomacy, hinting at a larger mission to confront a man named Wegg. The protagonist, buoyed by the night’s events, expresses confidence in handling any situation, dismissing the need for violence. The work explores themes of morality, the complexities of human nature, and the thin line between right and wrong in a world filled with temptation and deceit. The protagonist's journey is marked by moments of introspection, humor, and a growing awareness of the societal issues surrounding him, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of his own values and the impact of his actions on others.
By C.J. Dennis · First published 1930 · Genre: Poetry, Narrative, Humor · 2,326 words
First lines
I'm standin' at the corner uv the Lane - The Land called Spadgers - waiting fer 'is jills. The night's come chilly, an' a drizzlin' rain Falls steady where a near-by street lamp spills A gashly yeller light on stones all wet, An' makes the darkest corners darker yet.
Them darkest corners! 'Struth! Wot ain't I 'eard Uv dark deeds done there in the olden days, When crooks inticed some silly sozzled bird Upstage, an' dealt with 'im in unkind ways - Bashed 'im with bottles, woodened 'im with boots. Spadgers was rood to flush an' festive coots.
What this Textopian page supports
Nocturne is listed on Textopian as a short story by C.J. Dennis, dated 1930 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: C.J. Dennis
- Date: 1930 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Narrative, Humor, Social Commentary, Drama
- Length: 2,326 words
- Structure: 1 section, 27 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Nocturne by C.J. Dennis
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story with a clear plot involving characters and a sequence of events.
- Humor — The poem contains elements of humor, particularly in the dialogue and character interactions.
- Social Commentary — The themes explore societal issues, morality, and human behavior in a specific setting.
Tags
poetry · nature · night · dreams · romance · melancholy · imagination · beauty · reflection · serenity · emotion · landscape