Closing Time by Langston Hughes
The poem explores themes of mortality, memory, and the passage of time through vivid imagery and emotional resonance. It opens with a stark contrast between the pale face of a girl and her vibrant red lips, suggesting a juxtaposition of life and death. The mention of a taxi and weariness evokes a sense of longing and the desire for escape. The repeated references to the river and the moon symbolize the flow of time and the inevitability of death, while also serving as a backdrop for cherished memories. The sounds of cornet music and the sight of dancers create a lively atmosphere, contrasting with the underlying theme of loss. The plea for kindness from death reflects a yearning for compassion in the face of tragedy, particularly in the poignant image of a drowned girl, which encapsulates the fragility of life and the impact of loss on those left behind. Overall, the work captures the tension between the vibrancy of life and the somber reality of death, inviting reflection on the transient nature of existence and the memories that linger in its wake.
By Langston Hughes · First published 1967 · Genre: Poetry, Lyrical, Modernist · 78 words
First lines
Starter!
Her face is pale In the doorway light.
Her lips blood red And her skin blue white.
Taxi!
What this Textopian page supports
Closing Time is listed on Textopian as a poem by Langston Hughes, dated 1967 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Langston Hughes
- Date: 1967 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyrical, Modernist, Symbolism, Narrative
- Length: 78 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Lyrical — The emotional expression and personal reflection in the text align with lyrical poetry.
- Modernist — The themes of existentialism and fragmented imagery reflect modernist literary techniques.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols such as the river and moon conveys deeper meanings and emotions.
Tags
Poetry Collection · African American Literature · 20th Century Poetry · Social Commentary · Racial Tensions · Urban Life · Jazz Age · American Identity · Existential Crisis · Mortality · Nostalgia · Memory