Acquainted with the night

I have been the one acquainted with the night.

I have walked out in the 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,

One luminary clock against the sky.

Proclaimed the time was neither wrong nor right.

I have been one acquainted with the night.

• Robert Frost