The unnamed narrator of the poem is an observant individual spending a night at a fading venue in Harlem. Possessing a keen sensitivity to music and atmosphere, the speaker carefully watches the piano player and relates the heavy emotional weight of the performance. The speaker notes the rundown environment and the pale gas lighting, while also recognizing the powerful, soulful nature of the blues song. This deep connection to the rhythm causes the speaker to physically rock back and forth.

A Black piano player and singer performing late into the night at a threadbare venue on Harlem's Lenox Avenue. He channels profound isolation and deep life weariness into a sad, raggy tune. Singing in a Southern dialect, he vocalizes his severe unhappiness and his desire to escape his troubles. Despite his intense physical enervation and the dilapidated setting, he commands immense musical power that heavily impacts his audience.