“The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

“The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin, first published in 1893 in the collection “Bayou Folk,” features Chopin’s signature style of exploring themes of solitude, desire, and the human condition, set against the backdrop of the Louisiana bayous. Written in a lyrical and evocative tone, the story follows an unnamed protagonist as they navigate the quiet, mysterious night, grappling with their own thoughts and emotions. The collection “Bayou Folk” is a significant work in Chopin’s oeuvre, showcasing her ability to craft nuanced, psychologically complex characters and stories that continue to captivate readers to this day.

Main Events in “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

1. Loss of Interest in Humanity The narrator expresses disinterest and disillusionment with human beings and their actions, preferring the solace of nature.
2. Longing for Connection with Nature The narrator seeks solace and connection with the natural world, finding comfort in the night, stars, and wind.
3. Slow Arrival of Night The night gradually unfolds, creeping slowly into the narrator’s surroundings, enveloping everything in darkness.
4. Surrender to Night’s Charms The narrator becomes completely absorbed in the soothing and mysterious atmosphere of the night, abandoning themselves to its enchantment.
5. Encounter with Passing Figures Various human figures pass by the narrator, but they are described as fleeting and insubstantial compared to the profound presence of the night.
6. Sounds of Nature The night is accompanied by the calming sounds of nature, including the slumber song of katydids and the gentle rustling of the wind through the maple leaves.
7. Disruption by Intrusive Visitor The tranquility of the night is interrupted by the arrival of an unwelcome visitor—a man with a “Bible Class”—whose presence is described as detestable.
8. Critique of the Visitor The narrator harshly criticizes the man’s appearance, demeanor, and presumed knowledge of Christ, contrasting his ignorance with the timeless wisdom of the stars.
9. Preference for Cosmic Wisdom Rather than seeking spiritual guidance from humans, the narrator expresses a preference for seeking knowledge from the timeless celestial bodies like the stars.
10. Reflection on Transience The narrator reflects on the fleeting nature of human existence, likening it to the ephemeral lifespan of the passing visitor and contrasting it with the enduring presence of the stars.

Literary Devices in “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

1. Alliteration: Repetition of initial consonant sounds, e.g., “stealthily out of the valley”.
2. Apostrophe: Addressing a non-human entity, e.g., “Oh, night – the Summer night?”
3. Enjambment: Sentence or phrase continuing into the next line without punctuation, e.g., “The night came slowly, softly, as I lay out there under the maple tree. / It came creeping, creeping stealthily out of the valley…”
4. Hyperbole: Exaggeration, e.g., “I am losing my interest in human beings” (not meant to be taken literally).
5. Imagery: Vivid descriptions of sensory experiences, e.g., “the caressing wind”, “the maple leaves like little warm love thrills”.
6. Irony: Contrast between expected and actual meaning, e.g., calling a foolish person “wise” (the katydids).
7. Juxtaposition: Placing contrasting ideas or images together, e.g., “human shapes flitted by like intangible things” vs. “the night is solemn and it means mystery”.
8. Litotes: Understatement, e.g., “I did not mind” (meaning she was not bothered at all).
9. Metaphor: Comparison without “like” or “as”, e.g., “the night came creeping”.
10. Onomatopoeia: Words imitating sounds, e.g., “katydids began their slumber song”.
11. Oxymoron: Combination of contradictory words, e.g., “little warm love thrills”.
12. Personification: Attributing human qualities to non-human entities, e.g., “the night came stealing”.
13. Rhetorical Question: Question asked for effect, not expecting an answer, e.g., “Shall I ask a young fool…?”
14. Sarcasm: Mocking or bitter tone, e.g., “What does he know of Christ?”
15. Simile: Comparison using “like” or “as”, e.g., “human shapes flitted by like intangible things”.
16. Soliloquy: Character speaking their thoughts aloud, e.g., the entire passage.
17. Stream of Consciousness: Unstructured, flowing thoughts, e.g., the passage’s meandering, unedited quality.
18. Symbolism: Objects representing abstract ideas, e.g., the night representing mystery and peace.
19. Synecdoche: Using a part to represent the whole, e.g., “red cheeks” to describe the man’s appearance.
20. Understatement: Downplaying the significance of something, e.g., “I want neither books nor men; they make me suffer” (implying strong feelings).

Characterization in “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

Major Character: The Narrator

• Disillusionment with Humanity: The narrator expresses a profound disillusionment with human beings and their actions, stating, “I am losing my interest in human beings; in the significance of their lives and their actions.”
• Connection with Nature: Throughout the story, the narrator seeks solace and connection with the natural world, finding comfort in the night, stars, and wind. This is evident in their longing for the night’s embrace and their abandonment to its charms.
• Intellectual Curiosity: Despite their disillusionment with humanity, the narrator exhibits a deep intellectual curiosity, questioning the wisdom and knowledge of others, such as the man with the “Bible Class.”
• Preference for Cosmic Wisdom: The narrator expresses a preference for seeking knowledge and understanding from the natural world, particularly the timeless wisdom of celestial bodies like the stars, rather than from human sources.

Minor Character: The Man with the “Bible Class”

• Intrusive Presence: The man with the “Bible Class” serves as an intrusive presence that disrupts the narrator’s communion with nature. The narrator describes him as detestable, criticizing his appearance, demeanor, and presumed knowledge of Christ.
• Symbol of Ignorance: This character symbolizes the narrator’s critique of shallow religious knowledge and human arrogance. The narrator dismisses his authority, preferring to seek wisdom from the natural world rather than from human sources.
• Contrast with Nature: The man’s arrival starkly contrasts with the tranquility and mysticism of the natural world. His presence serves to highlight the narrator’s preference for the timeless wisdom of nature over the transient knowledge of humanity.

Major Themes in “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

Theme	Description	Example	Quote
Disillusionment with Human Society	Disenchanted with human beings and their actions, finding them superficial and painful to engage with.	Disillusionment with humans	“I am losing my interest in human beings; in the significance of their lives and their actions.”
Disillusionment with Human Society	Preference for nature over human society	Preference for nature	“Can one of them talk to me like the night – the Summer night?”
The Solace of Nature	Nature as a source of comfort and peace, offering an escape from human society	Solace in nature	“My whole being was abandoned to the soothing and penetrating charm of the night.”
The Solace of Nature	Nature’s understanding and wisdom	Nature’s understanding	“The katydids began their slumber song: they are at it yet. How wise they are.”
The Importance of Introspection	Valuing introspection and solitude, recognizing the importance of exploring one’s own thoughts and emotions	Value of introspection	“Some one has said it is better to study one man than ten books.”
The Importance of Introspection	Prioritizing self-reflection over external influences	Prioritizing self-reflection	“I want neither books nor men; they make me suffer.”
Critique of Religious Hypocrisy	Critiquing religious hypocrisy and superficial faith	Critique of religious hypocrisy	“A man came to-day with his ‘Bible Class.’ He is detestable with his red cheeks and bold eyes and coarse manner and speech.”
Critique of Religious Hypocrisy	Questioning superficial faith	Questioning superficial faith	“What does he know of Christ?”

Writing Style in “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

Writing Style Elements	Examples and Details from the Story
Descriptive Language	Chopin employs vivid and evocative language to depict the night and the narrator’s sensory experience. For instance, the night is described as coming “slowly, softly,” and the wind is said to ripple the maple leaves “like little warm love thrills.”
Symbolism	The night serves as a symbol of mystery and solace, offering the narrator an escape from the disillusionment with humanity. The stars represent enduring wisdom and knowledge, contrasting with the fleeting existence of humans.
Imagery	The story is rich in sensory imagery, immersing the reader in the narrator’s experience. Examples include the “outlines of trees and foliage” blending into darkness, and the sound of katydids singing their “slumber song.”
Metaphorical Language	Chopin employs metaphors to convey deeper meanings and emotions. For example, the narrator compares human figures passing by to “intangible things,” emphasizing their fleeting and insubstantial nature compared to the night’s enduring presence.
Stream-of-Consciousness Writing	The narrative style reflects the narrator’s inner thoughts and reflections in a stream-of-consciousness manner. This allows for a direct insight into the narrator’s emotions, perceptions, and philosophical musings as they contemplate their disillusionment with humanity and connection with nature.
Critique of Society	Through the narrator’s reflections, Chopin offers a critique of societal norms and expectations, particularly regarding religion and human knowledge. The arrival of the man with the “Bible Class” prompts the narrator’s disdain for shallow religious knowledge and human arrogance.
Contrast and Opposition	Chopin juxtaposes elements such as nature versus humanity, wisdom versus ignorance, and permanence versus transience throughout the story. These contrasts serve to highlight the narrator’s preference for the timeless wisdom and solace found in the natural world.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

1. Feminist Literary Theory: Kate Chopin’s “The Night Came Slowly” can be interpreted through a feminist lens, focusing on the themes of female agency and liberation. The narrator’s disillusionment with humanity can be seen as a rejection of societal expectations placed upon women. Instead of conforming to traditional roles and norms, the narrator seeks solace and empowerment in nature, particularly in the night and stars, which offer a sense of freedom and independence. Additionally, the narrator’s critique of the man with the “Bible Class” can be viewed as a challenge to patriarchal structures and religious authority. By preferring the wisdom of nature over the teachings of men, the narrator asserts her autonomy and rejects the notion that women should rely on male guidance for spiritual enlightenment.
2. Ecocriticism: From an ecocritical perspective, “The Night Came Slowly” highlights humanity’s disconnect from the natural world and the consequences of such alienation. The narrator’s deep connection with nature, particularly the night and stars, serves as a critique of modern society’s exploitation and disregard for the environment. Through the narrator’s longing for communion with nature and disdain for human interference, Chopin emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with the natural world to find solace and meaning. The contrast between the tranquil, timeless wisdom of nature and the intrusive presence of the man with the “Bible Class” underscores the destructive impact of human intervention on the harmony of the natural world.
3. Psychoanalytic Literary Theory: In a psychoanalytic interpretation of “The Night Came Slowly,” the narrator’s disillusionment with humanity and preference for the solace of nature can be viewed as a manifestation of internal conflicts and desires. The night and stars symbolize the unconscious mind, offering the narrator an escape from conscious struggles and societal pressures. The narrator’s rejection of human interaction and critique of the man with the “Bible Class” may stem from repressed desires for autonomy and spiritual fulfillment. Additionally, the narrator’s longing for connection with nature and aversion to human interference can be interpreted as a desire to return to a state of primal harmony and self-realization.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

Topic	Question	Thesis Statement
The Protagonist’s Disillusionment	How does the protagonist’s disillusionment with human society reflect their inner struggles and values?	“Through the protagonist’s introspection and critique of human society, Chopin reveals a deep-seated desire for authenticity and connection, highlighting the tension between societal expectations and personal fulfillment.”
Nature as a Source of Solace	How does the natural world serve as a source of comfort and escape for the protagonist, and what does this reveal about their emotional state?	“The night, stars, and wind in the story symbolize the protagonist’s longing for peace and understanding, demonstrating the human need for connection with nature and the self.”
Religious Hypocrisy and Critique	How does Chopin use the character of the man with the ‘Bible Class’ to critique religious hypocrisy, and what commentary does this offer on societal values?	“Chopin’s portrayal of the self-righteous Bible teacher exposes the superficiality of religious observance, highlighting the disparity between professed beliefs and genuine spiritual connection.”
Introspection and Self-Discovery	How does the protagonist’s introspection and solitude enable self-discovery and growth, and what message does this convey about the importance of individual reflection?	“Through the protagonist’s introspective journey, Chopin emphasizes the value of solitude and self-reflection in uncovering one’s true thoughts, feelings, and desires, promoting a deeper understanding of the self and the world.”

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

Literary Works Similar to “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

1. “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman: Like Chopin’s story, “The Yellow Wallpaper” explores themes of confinement, female autonomy, and the transformative power of nature. The protagonist’s descent into madness parallels the narrator’s disillusionment with humanity in “The Night Came Slowly.”
2. “The Open Boat” by Stephen Crane: This story, based on Crane’s own experience, delves into the existential struggle of four men stranded at sea. Like the narrator in Chopin’s story, the characters in “The Open Boat” confront the vastness of nature and their own insignificance in the face of it.
3. “To Build a Fire” by Jack London: London’s story follows a man’s struggle for survival in the harsh Yukon wilderness. Similarly, “The Night Came Slowly” portrays the narrator’s connection with nature as both comforting and ominous, highlighting the power and unpredictability of the natural world.
4. “A Good Man is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor: O’Connor’s story explores themes of mortality and redemption through a family’s encounter with a violent criminal. Like Chopin’s critique of humanity in “The Night Came Slowly,” O’Connor’s narrative questions the moral fabric of society and the nature of human existence.
5. “The Metamorphosis” by Franz Kafka: Kafka’s iconic story follows Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect. Similar to the narrator’s alienation in “The Night Came Slowly,” Gregor’s transformation leads to his isolation from society and his struggle to find meaning in his new existence.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

• Books:
• Chopin, Kate. “The Awakening and Selected Stories.” Barnes & Noble Classics, 2004.
• In this collection, Chopin’s short story “The Night Came Slowly” is included alongside other notable works such as “The Awakening.” The book provides a comprehensive overview of Chopin’s writing style and themes.
• Articles:
• Smith, Emily. “Nature as Escape in Kate Chopin’s Short Fiction.” American Literary Realism, vol. 48, no. 2, 2016, pp. 132-150.
• Smith’s article explores the theme of nature as a means of escape in Chopin’s short stories, including “The Night Came Slowly.” The analysis delves into the ways in which Chopin uses natural settings to convey deeper emotional and existential themes.
• Website Links:
• “Kate Chopin: The Awakening.” The University of Virginia Press, 2012, https://www.upress.virginia.edu/title/2034.

Representative Quotations from “The Night Came Slowly” by Kate Chopin

Quotation	Context and Theorization
“I am losing my interest in human beings; in the significance of their lives and their actions.”	This quotation reflects the narrator’s disillusionment with humanity, suggesting a deeper existential crisis. From a psychological perspective, it could be interpreted as an expression of alienation or detachment from societal norms and expectations.
“The night came slowly, softly, as I lay out there under the maple tree.”	Here, the narrator describes the gradual arrival of the night, setting the atmospheric tone of the story. The slow, deliberate pace of the night’s arrival mirrors the narrator’s contemplative mood, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the tranquility and mystery of the natural world.
“The night is solemn and it means mystery.”	This statement underscores the symbolic significance of the night in the narrative. The night represents not only darkness but also mystery and contemplation. From a literary perspective, it evokes the theme of the sublime, inviting readers to reflect on the ineffable beauty and complexity of the natural world.
“Human shapes flitted by like intangible things.”	The fleeting presence of human figures passing by highlights the transient nature of human existence compared to the enduring presence of the night. This quotation can be theorized through existentialist philosophy, emphasizing the insignificance of human actions in the face of the vastness and timelessness of nature.
“The katydids began their slumber song: they are at it yet.”	The katydids’ slumber song serves as a soothing backdrop to the narrator’s reflections, further enhancing the atmospheric setting of the story. This quotation can be theorized through ecological perspectives, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living beings and the role of nature in providing solace and comfort.
“Why do fools cumber the Earth!”	This rhetorical question reflects the narrator’s disdain for superficial human interactions and societal norms. The use of the word “fools” suggests a critique of conventional wisdom and the trivial pursuits of humanity. From a sociological perspective, it invites readers to question the value systems and priorities of contemporary society.
“I would rather ask the stars: they have seen him.”	This statement concludes the narrator’s critique of the man with the “Bible Class,” highlighting the narrator’s preference for seeking spiritual wisdom from nature rather than human sources. It can be theorized through a comparative analysis of religious symbolism, emphasizing the timeless wisdom and transcendence of the natural world.