The golden splendor of the day
The sable pride of night.
In this moment, the speaker describes the two main characters with natural metaphors. He compares the white man to daylight's "golden splendor" and the Black man to nighttime's "sable pride." The use of "golden" and "sable" highlights the contrasting colors of their skin, but also shows that neither of them is less beautiful for being different from the other. This moment portrays them as proud and strong, showing the speaker's respect and admiration for their love.
Indignant that these two should dare
In unison to walk.
These lines occur at the end of the first stanza, as the speaker describes the stares and chatter of Black and white onlookers. The word "indignant" effectively showcases their unkind judgment of the situation. They are disturbed by the couple's walking "in unison," but offer no other rational reason for their disgusted attitude. The word "dare" is an instance of verbal irony, revealing the overdramatic tone of these onlookers' perspectives and mocking their scandalized sensibilities.
Oblivious to look and word
They pass, and see no wonder
These lines from the third stanza show the couple's complete lack of concern about the people watching them. They are "oblivious" to the "stares" and "talk" mentioned earlier in the poem, implying that they are too happy to take note. The phrase "see no wonder" supports this impression, as it suggests that they see no substance in the judgment of these people. Their lack of concern here highlights the strength and solidity of their bond, as they remain unaffected by the disapproval of others.
