English as a Second Language – Reading | e-Consult

The poet creates a mood of quiet melancholy and loneliness through the use of specific imagery and language. The opening line, "A hush descends, the day is done," immediately establishes a sense of stillness and closure. The "golden sun" of streetlights, while visually appealing, also suggests a fading light and the end of activity. The phrase "shadows lurk, and secrets hide" introduces an element of unease and mystery. The image of a "lonely figure, window-gazing" directly conveys a feeling of isolation. The city is personified as "breathing, a restless sigh," suggesting a subtle underlying sadness or weariness. The vast, "watchful sky" could imply a sense of being observed or a feeling of insignificance within the urban environment.

The poet's use of words like "lonely," "secrets," and "restless" suggests a somewhat pessimistic view of city life. The poem doesn't explicitly condemn the city, but it hints at the potential for isolation and hidden sadness beneath the surface of urban activity. The poem conveys an attitude of quiet contemplation and a recognition of the emotional complexities that can exist within a bustling environment. It suggests that even in a city full of people, individuals can feel profoundly alone.