Winter Night

The snow is spread over the fallow fields

As if a blanket was first shook, then flung

Into the air to cover wrinkled sheets.

Just so the snow lays on the stubbled corn.

And my dark shadow stretches over it,

Cast by the yellow glow of the bright lamp

That stands alone just by the bare-boned trees

And sends the snowflakes twinkling like stars.

How just! For higher stars are hid behind

The swirling layers of that smoky veil

That will not part even to show the moon.

I stand and long to run over the field,

To break the yet-unbroken crust of snow

And sink up to my knee in splintered stars

And see my shadow racing at my side

And feel the clear air fresh against my face

And taste the hidden moonlight on my tongue.

But no. The quiet night that drenches all

With peace is far too beautiful to mar.

I turn an set my eyes on far-off home.