Nightfall Poem by George Cooke

The gathering darkness begins to enfold
All in its path, rock, squirrel and sparrow.
Casting a pale, over all its sees,
Causing a tension, a sense of unease.

The gradual parting of light, from on high,
To return once more, in time to come.
Robbing all, of the ability to thrive
Until the light of the dawn arrive.

The degree of gloom, though slight at first,
Encompasses steadily, surmounting, unhindered.
Effecting a change, in what one perceives
Stilling the rustle and crackle of the leaves.

The shadows grow longer, until at last
They exist no longer, gone into oblivion.
Enter, obscurity, all clad in black,
Reigning over every nook, cranny and crack.

Wonder enraptures creatures of the night
As they explore, the world once more.
Returning to their usual way of life
Stilled, if only, by the day and its strife.

The unease in the air captures the wind
Bringing to a height the murkiness within.
The outbreak of sweat, fluster and disquiet
The final outburst, imminent, a riot.

The sudden flash across the dark skies
Paints the horizon, colours the sphere.
Signalling the storm, yet to come
Ahead of the beat of the drum.

The deafening crash of thunder shatters
Sending one, sending all
Seeking protection, away from harm
An almost inevitable search for calm.

The downpour follows, drenching entirely
Everything it touches, leaf, stone and wall.
Water, supremely covers, leaving a feeling
Of refreshment and internal healing.

The stillness once more to the night returns
Awaiting the first rays of light at dawn
When life resumes, if only for some,
As time passes, and night will once again come.