All-Hallows-Even

Willowbrook Even

Now is the right time, Lord, Summer is over.
Let the autumn shadows drift upon the sundials,
And let the wind stray loose over the fields.


Summer was abundant. May the last fruits be full
Of its promise. Give them a last few summer days.
Bring everything into completion, Lord,
The last sweetness in the heavy wine.


Who has no house will never have one now;
Who is alone will spend his days alone;
Will wake to read some pages of a book;
Will write long letters; wander unpeacefully
In the late streets, while the leaves stray down.

"Herbsttag" (Autumn Day) by Rainer Maria Rilke, tr. David Ferry