There has been a similar focus throughout the readings about the act of gazing. Many instances of protagonists actively engaging in looking at the subject of their interest, that focus usually being applied toward another person. The gaze is often synonymous with want, longing, yearning for something. In a number of the texts we have closely read, this sense of desire can regularly be associated with a growing affection bordering on the emotion of love. Though, the gaze can also be accompanied by emotions of anger or despise; wishing for the object of that particular gaze to go away or to no longer be a part of their life. This act of looking steadily and intently is able to be interpreted in many ways.

In the periodical Fire!!, a piece titled “Smoke Lillies and Jade” by Richard Bruce Nugent, contains a passionate moment that occurs between the subjects of Alex and Beauty where the first mentioned type of gaze is used to portray Alex’s feelings toward the one being called Beauty. “Alex handed him a match . . . he glanced at his companion apprehensively in the match glow . . . he was afraid that his appearance would shatter the blue thoughts” (36) “his face was a perfect compliment to his voice” (36). During this scene, Alex’s emotions about the man dubbed Beauty are clearly portrayed. While Alex looks on at his subject of interest, he becomes so enamored that he begins to worry about losing his composure and forgetting his train of thought. Such as the saying butterflies in my stomach goes, these reactions are due to nervousness from Alex’s attraction to Beauty. Complimenting several features like his face and voice, yearning for some type of connection with such a charming person. Then, throughout “Smoke Lillies and Jade”, as this romantic dynamic between them develops further from this initial moment and gaze signifies what the act of looking steadily and intently can intend to convey.

Smoke, Lilies and Jade – YouTube

Linked above is a YouTube video of a read out and images for “Smoke Lillies and Jade” by Richard Bruce Nugent. At the 26:46 time mark of the video there is a photo of a man staring straight into the camera, he has a slight smile and looks happy. Also, the narrator’s voice that plays over this part of the video starting at that time is reading aloud the beginning of the moment I have quoted. The added visual and voice with this segment from the video exhibits how Alex’s gaze from this scene connects with the passionate emotions he was developing for his subject of interest Beauty.

The gaze can also contain negative connotations and be used to express gloomy emotions as well. In the film “Passing” (2021) directed by Rebecca Hall, there are several moments throughout the movie where Irene and other characters use their gaze in ways to express their thoughts and feelings; this other adverse way of looking at others is made known in a number of scenes within the motion picture. In the screen shot above, I have chosen this instance from a scene where the protagonist Irene and her husband Brian are hosting a party. Here Irene is staring at Clare while she is engaged in conversation across the room. The look on Irene’s face shows she is troubled and annoyed by Clare. This is due to the earlier undesirable occurrences in the movie; meeting Clare’s racist husband John, opposing Clare’s lifestyle choices, and Clare’s increasing closeness with Brian. Her rage intensifies so much she even intentionally drops the teapot she was holding in an attempt to relieve some of her frustration. With Irene’s facial expression and emotional reactions, this part certainly displays the loathe and fury that accompanies the intense gaze Irene is using toward Clare.

The gaze is represented with a variety of emotions and can be used in a multitude of ways, as highlighted by these meaningful moments.