Eight o'clock, no later, You light the lamps, The big one…
““Eight o'clock, no later, You light the lamps, The big one by the large window, The small one on your desk, They are not to see by-- It is still twilight out over the sand, The scrub oaks and cranberries. Even the small birds have not settled For sleep yet, out of the reach Of prowling foxes. No, You light the lamps because You are alone in your small house And the wicks sputtering gold Are like two visitors with good stories They will tell slowly, in soft voices, While the air outside turns quietly A grainy and luminous blue. You wish it would never change-- But of course the darkness keeps Its appointment. Each evening, An inscrutable presence, it has the final word Outside every door.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The poet describes lighting lamps in a quiet house at night, reflecting on solitude, darkness, and the gentle presence of light amidst nature.
In simple terms: Lighting lamps in solitude brings comfort.
Key Takeaway
Embrace quiet moments.
Themes
nature
solitude
light
darkness
reflection
Mood
contemplative
poetic
Type
darkness:1
nature:1
poem:1
poetry:1
powerless:0
powerlessness:0
smallness:1
light lamps:1
foxes light:0
lamps small:0
later light:0
When to use this quote
- reading poetry
- meditation
- evening rituals
Key Concepts
poetry
imagery
nature description
nighttime
Questions to Reflect On
- How does light change your perception of night?
- What comforts you in solitude?
A Different Perspective
The poem may romanticize isolation.