Poetry Blog 141 Night-Sound Meyer

NIGHT-SOUND

From Wikipedia - Conrad Ferdinand Meyer (11 October 1825 – 28 November 1898) was a Swiss poet and historical novelist, a master of realism chiefly remembered for stirring narrative ballads...

Meyer's lyric verse is almost entirely the product of his later years. He frequently celebrated human handiwork, especially works of art. Rome and the monumental work of Michelangelo were among decisive experiences in his life.

This poem "Nachtgesräusche" is, however, one of those poems that finds a suggestive resonance and a sense of metaphor in describing an everyday human experience.This English version originally appeared in Poetry Australia under the editorial overview of Les Murray.

                     NIGHT-SOUND

after the German of Conrad Ferdinand Meyer

Muse, announce to me the night-soft noises,

Those which flood the ear of one unsleeping !

First the dogs' familiar, watchful barking,

Then the counted strikes of hours departing,

From the shore two fishermen's far speaking,

Then ? Nothing further than the dim, unsensed,

Spirit sound of soft, unbroken stillness,

Like the breathing of a youthful bosom,

Like a deeply hidden fountain's murmur,

Like a muffled oar-stroke's steady beating,

Then, and then the unheard steps of slumber.