Gal's Cry for a Dying Lover
The poem presents a poignant expression of grief and desperation as a woman confronts the impending death of her lover. The opening lines evoke a sense of foreboding, with the sound of an owl signaling death. The speaker's emotional turmoil is palpable as she seeks solace under her covers, overwhelmed by sorrow. The imagery of the hound dog barking reinforces the theme of loss, suggesting that death is imminent. The speaker's self-description as "black and ugly" contrasts sharply with her deep affection for her lover, who treats her kindly despite societal prejudices. This juxtaposition highlights the complexities of love and self-worth in the face of adversity. As the poem progresses, the speaker's pleas to a higher power reflect her desperation and hope for mercy. The repetition of her love's qualities emphasizes the depth of her feelings and the pain of potential separation. The work captures the intersection of love, race, and mortality, illustrating how personal relationships can provide comfort amidst life's harsh realities. The emotional weight of the speaker's words resonates, making the reader acutely aware of the fragility of life and the profound impact of love.
By Langston Hughes · First published 1941 · Genre: Poetry, Blues, African American Literature · 143 words
First lines
Heard de owl a hootin', Knowed somebody's 'bout to die.
Heard de owl a hootin', Knowed somebody's 'bout to die.
Put ma head un'neath de kiver, Started in to moan an' cry.
Hound dawg's barkin'
What this Textopian page supports
Gal's Cry for a Dying Lover is listed on Textopian as a poem by Langston Hughes, dated 1941 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: 1941 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Blues, African American Literature, Romance, Spiritual
- Length: 143 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on emotional expression.
- Blues — The themes and style reflect the blues genre, emphasizing sorrow and longing.
- African American Literature — The work addresses the experiences and emotions of a black woman, highlighting cultural identity.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and loss, characteristic of romantic literature.
Tags
Poetry · Love · Loss · Death · Grief · Emotion · Sorrow · Longing · Yearning · Heartbreak · Pain · Despair