Dat Gal o' Mine
The work presents a vivid and affectionate portrayal of a young woman, emphasizing her physical beauty and charm through rich imagery and rhythmic language. The speaker admires her dark skin, soft texture, and striking white teeth, comparing them to luxurious materials and precious objects. Her eyes are likened to the evening star, suggesting a captivating brightness and allure. The description continues with details about her hair, which is neatly styled in rows and adorned with ribbons, indicating care and pride in her appearance. The speaker notes her delicate hands, suggesting that she is not accustomed to hard labor, and highlights her small feet, which add to her overall gracefulness. The narrative shifts to a scene where the woman dresses up for church, showcasing her best clothes, which further emphasizes her beauty and the speaker's pride in her. The speaker's admiration is palpable, reflecting a deep emotional connection and appreciation for her presence and character. The work encapsulates themes of love, beauty, and cultural identity, celebrating the woman's individuality and the speaker's affection for her.
By James Weldon Johnson · First published 1935 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, African American Literature · 179 words
First lines
Skin as black an' jes as sof' as a velvet dress, Teeth as white as ivory -- well dey is I guess.
Eyes dat's jes as big an' bright as de evenin' star;
An' dat hol' some sort o' light lublier by far.
Hair don't hang 'way down her back; plaited up in rows;
What this Textopian page supports
Dat Gal o' Mine is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Weldon Johnson, dated 1935 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Weldon Johnson
- Date: 1935 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, African American Literature, Lyric, Narrative
- Length: 179 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Romance — The poem expresses affection and admiration for a romantic partner, highlighting beauty and pride.
- African American Literature — The poem reflects cultural identity and experiences specific to the African American community.
- Lyric — The poem conveys personal emotions and feelings, typical of lyric poetry.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Racial Identity · Social Justice · African American Experience · Love Poems · Romance · Sorrow · Longing · Nostalgia · Memory · Family Ties