The Clock

Midnight: and the familiar books stand

Suave under glass or open to the hand:

Only the clock says Have you ever been happy?

The minutes pass and the thick books say

The question each asks each is the best way:

Only the clock says Is the answer truthful?

The minutes pass and these slow words climb

Into the single gesture of a rhyme:

Only the clock says Your wishes are not simple.

The books and rhyme are done, the mind goes

To peace in dreams, the restless heart flows

Down to the natural quiet of dog and rose:

Only the clock says Morning will bring no comfort.