In this passage from James Joyce's "The Dead," the protagonist reflects on a woman standing in shadow, attentive to the distant sound of music. He contemplates the significance of her presence and demeanor, creating a vivid image in his mind. He imagines how he would capture the moment as a painter, focusing on the contrast between her blue felt hat and her bronze hair, as well as the play of light and dark in her attire.

Through this imagery, Joyce emphasizes the emotional weight of the scene, highlighting the beauty and poignancy of the woman's listening experience. The title he envisions for the painting, "Distant Music," suggests a connection between longing and the ephemeral nature of memory, adding a layer of depth to the woman's quiet observation.