Into the dark night Resignedly I go, I am not so afraid of the dark night As the friends I do not know, I do not fear the night above As I fear the friends below.
Interpretation
The quote reflects a fear of isolation and the unknown in relationships rather than the fear of darkness itself.
In this quote, Stevie Smith expresses a profound fear of loneliness and unfamiliarity in human connections. While the darkness of night can be intimidating, the poet emphasizes that the real dread comes from the unknown friendships and connections that may not materialize. It suggests that our anxieties about social interactions and acceptance can often overshadow the more external fears around us.
In practice
This quote could be used to highlight the importance of maintaining friendships during difficult times at a mental health seminar.
My friendships, they are a very strong part of my life, they are as light as gossamer but also they are as strong as steel. And I cannot throw them off, nor altogether do with them or without them. And I love them at the point where they say: It is nice to see you again. And I love them too at the point when they say: Good-bye, come again soon. The rhythm of friendship is a very good rhythm.
Nobody heard him, the dead man, But still he lay moaning. I was much further out than you thought, and not waving but drowning. I was much too far out all my life, And not waving but drowning.
My Friend: Art thou abroad on this stormy night on thy journey of love, my friend? The sky groans like one in despair. I have no sleep tonight. Ever and again I open my door and look out on the darkness, my friend! I can see nothing before me. I wonder where lies thy path! By what dim shore of the ink-black river, by what far edge of the frowning forest, through what mazy depth of gloom art thou threading thy course to come to me, my friend?
Because that's what you do, you stand up for your best friend. And you eat lunch with him and talk with him and share secrets and laugh a lot and go places and do stuff, and when you wake up in the morning, he's the first person you think of.
Never forget the days I spent with you. Continue to be my friend, as you will always find me yours.
We Masons are among the fortunate ones who are taught to meet together with others opposing convictions or competitive ideas and yet respect each other as Brothers.
They're a rotten crowd', I shouted across the lawn. 'You're worth the whole damn bunch put together.
Young friends, do not hesitate to follow the example of Pedro, who 'pleased God and was loved by him' and who, having come to perfection in so short a time, lived a full life.
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