Fascination by Langston Hughes
The poem explores themes of beauty, desire, and admiration through vivid imagery and sensory details. The speaker expresses deep affection for a woman, using comparisons that evoke the natural world. Her physical features are described in a way that highlights their allure: her white teeth resemble apple flesh, her lips are likened to dark plums, and her hair is compared to a rich, dark sky. The speaker's love is intertwined with a longing to connect physically, as indicated by the desire to kiss her. The use of color plays a significant role in conveying the speaker's feelings. The woman's skin is described as a soft brown, reminiscent of autumn leaves, suggesting warmth and richness. This choice of imagery not only emphasizes her beauty but also reflects the speaker's appreciation for her uniqueness. The repetition of "I love her" reinforces the intensity of the speaker's emotions, creating a rhythmic quality that enhances the poem's lyrical nature. Overall, the work captures the essence of infatuation, celebrating the woman's physical attributes while also hinting at a deeper emotional connection. The speaker's admiration is both personal and universal, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences of love and attraction. The poem's structure, with its short lines and vivid descriptions, contributes to its impact, making the feelings expressed both immediate and resonant.
By Langston Hughes · First published 1935 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Imagism · 70 words
First lines
Her teeth are as white as the meat of an apple, Her lips are like dark ripe plums.
I love her.
Her hair is a midnight mass, a dusky aurora.
I love her.
What this Textopian page supports
Fascination is listed on Textopian as a poem by Langston Hughes, 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: Langston Hughes
- Date: 1935 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Imagism, African American Literature, Lyric
- Length: 70 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing imagery and rhythm typical of poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of love and admiration for beauty align with romantic ideals.
- Imagism — The vivid imagery and focus on sensory details reflect the principles of Imagism.
- African American Literature — The author, Langston Hughes, is a key figure in African American literature, and the work reflects cultural identity.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 20th Century · African American · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Free Verse · Social Commentary · Racial Tensions · Identity Crisis · Coming of Age