Le Sommeil du Monstre

I have been one acquainted with the night.



I have walked out in rain — and back in rain.


I have outwalked the furthest city light.






I have looked down the saddest city lane.


I have passed by the watchman on his beat


And dropped my eyes, unwilling to explain.






I have stood still and stopped the sound of feet


When far away an interrupted cry


Came over houses from another street,






But not to call me back or say good-bye;


And further still at an unearthly height,


A luminary clock against the sky






Proclaimed the time was neither wrong nor right.


I have been one acquainted with the night.






Robert Frost