Jazzonia
Oh, silver tree! Oh, shining rivers of the soul! In a Harlem cabaret Six long-headed jazzers play. A dancing girl whose eyes are bold Lifts high a dress of silken gold. Oh, singing tree! Oh, shining rivers of the soul! Were Eve's eyes In the first garden Just a bit too bold? Was Cleopatra gorgeous In a gown of gold? Oh, shining tree! Oh, silver rivers of the soul! In a whirling cabaret Six long-headed jazzers play.
Jazzonia - fact Summary
Reflects Harlem Life
The poem evokes a Harlem cabaret scene where jazz musicians and a bold, gilded dancer are framed by recurring images like a "shining tree" and "rivers of the soul." It juxtaposes classical or biblical female figures (Eve, Cleopatra) with a modern performer, suggesting continuity between mythic beauty and contemporary Black nightlife. The piece reflects Hughes's observations of African American culture and urban entertainment in Harlem.
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