I find this work a compellingly fine painting. The two comedians, the old pantomime characters, who come to bow at the end of the show, are grateful for every bravo and clap.
Edward Hopper and Josephine Nivison played their parts in the same drama/comedy/marriage for almost forty-three years. Jo’s role was the wife, model, muse, fellow painter, and assistant. Hopper’s main role was the celebrated artist. The two characters had many happy scenes together, as well as constant violent ones. Their performances were successful: loud claps and recognition never lagged behind. After many many years of playing, though, the two comedians felt exhausted. They knew the play was soon to be over. Edward took Jo’s hand and carefully went to the brink of the stage with her. Two tiny figures with endless darkness behind them and the abyss in front. They bowed, perhaps a little timidly even. Here is the end.
We are all comedians, just like Hopper and Jo. I hope at my final appearance somebody will hold my hand too.
